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Book Recommendations

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mr_johns_top_juv_comics.pdf
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Book Reviews

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Zombie Goes to Camp (Diary of a Minecraft Zombie #6)
             By Zack Zombie
Zombie is going to a 3 week creep away camp. He has heard rumors that the counselors like to eat their campers' brains. But, Zombie learns that things aren't always as they seem.
I liked this book because it was action packed and funny. I recommend this book to people who like Minecraft and lots of laughs.
Reviewed by Timmy

tags: humor, videogames, camp, adventure

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Bridge to Terabithia
              By Katherine Paterson
Jess is a boy who is going into 5th grade. He wants to be the fastest in his class and he has spent all summer practicing. WHen school finally starts he is confident that he will win the race. Then, out of the blue, a new girl named Leslie beats everyone. At first Jess is mad, but then he becomes friends with Leslie, who also turns out to be his next door neighbor.
Leslie creates Terabithia, a magical make believe kingdon in the woods behind her house. Terabithia is a secret place where Jess and Leslie go on many epic adventures. But then trouble starts brewing in Terabithia. An evil spell of bad weather has been placed on the kingdom. The heavy rains flood the ditch that you must swimg across the enter Terabithia. Jess begins to fear he will fall into the water.
The next Day Jess' favorite teacher, Miss Edmunds, invites Jess for a day in Washington, DC. WHen he returns his father tells him that Leslie is dead. She drowned in the ditch when the rope swing to Terabithia snapped/ Jess is devastated. He refuses to believe that Leslie is dead/ At her memorial gathering Jess gets enraged when he finds out that Bill, Leslie's dad, has cremated Leslie and Jess will never see her again.
A few days later, Jess goes to the entrance to Terabithia, the place of Leslie's death. He has secretly been followed by his second youngest sister, May Belle. Jess is angry when he finds out he has been followed. But then Jess decides that he will make May Belle the queen of Terabithia so Leslie's kingdom and memory will live on.
Reviewed By Timmy

tags: friendship, classic, death and dying

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Ashley the Dragon Fairy (Rainbow Magic)
            By Daisy Meadows
This book was easy to read. The thing that I thought was good about it was I didn't waste any time by reading it. I didn't have any concerns about it though.
​Reviewed by anonymous

tags: series, fantasy, fairies, dragons

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 Spoiled
            By Heather Cocks & Jessica Morgan
Spoiled tells the story of two unlikely sisters forced to share the spotlight of LA. Molly Dix was just fine living with her mother in a small Indiana town believing that her father is long dead. That is, until her mother is diagnosed with cancer and her deathbed confession is that Molly;s father is not only alive, but world famous movie star/director Brick Berlin. When Brick asks Molly to come live with him is Los Angeles she hesitantly agrees. Upon arriving she meets her beautiful half-sister, Brooke Berlin, whose dazzling smile hides deadly shark teeth. And so begins a war of scandalous pictures, tabloid tell-alls, fashion sabotage, alleged backstabbing, and some very unfortunate emails. Grab your zero-card vegan bran muffins and organic dairy-free smoothies and settle in folks. The premier of Spoiled is going to be a bumpy ride.
Reviewed by Grace

tags: YA, family, fame, Hollywood

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Audrey, Wait!
            By Robin Benway
Audrey, Wait! is a hilarious book about an average girl who becomes famous overnight for doing nothing at all. When Audrey Cuttler breaks up with her musician boyfriend Evan she never dreams he would write a breathtakingly fantastic song starring none other than herself. However, that's exactly what happens and everyone at her school goes crazy for Audrey, Wait! after Evan and his band the Do-Gooders perform it at the local summer hang out, the Jukebox. Audrey is mortified but with some help from her best friend Victoria she slowly comes out of hiding. By the time school rolls around no one is talking about the song and Audrey feels like she can breathe again. Then she hears it on the radio. Again, and again, and again. Suddenly Audrey is pushed into the spotlight and becomes and instant celebrity. Now she has to juggle stalker fans, annoying paparazzi, and an online explosion of everyone and their mother's opinions of her. How will she ever survive her senior year?
Reviewed by Grace

tags: YA, music, fame, realistic fiction, high school, romance

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Freckle Juice
            By Judy Blume
There was a boy named Andrew that wanted Freckles like Nicky's. Sharon told Andrew, "I will give you a recipe for 50 cents, a secret freckle juice recipe. The juice did not work and Sharon kept the 50 cents.
Reviewed by Maya

tags: realistic fiction, humor, friendship, classic

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Every Dog Has His Day (McGrowl #3)
            By Bob Balaban
McGrowl is not a normal dog. He has a lot of super powers. On his birthday he gets a fortune cookie that warns him something bad is going to happen. When Thomas, his owner, goes away to wilderness weekend something bad happens. Pop and Mamie, two favorite school teachers, start acting weird. Violet, Thomas' friend, realizes that. Thomas sends a telepathic message to McGrowl asking for help! McGrowl discovers that Smuge and Gretchen, the evil duo, have taken Pop and Mamie and are now pretending to be them. Pop and Mamie are being kept in a volcano. Thomas and Violet were also tricked in the volcano. McGrowl uses his x-ray power to find them. He is able to dig them out, and then saves everyone. Smuge and Gretchen limp away.

tags: series, animals, dogs, camping, super powers, science fiction

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When You Reach Me
            By Rebecca Stead
When You Reach Me was an interesting book. It was complicated and kind of a mystery. It is about this girl named Miranda (Mira), and it is about her school life, she is 12 and in the book she turns 13 also. I loved this book because I like complicated and mysterious stuff.
​Reviewed by Lily

tags: YA, mystery, historical fiction, thriller

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The Moonstone Castle Mystery (Nancy Drew Mysteries #40)
            By Carolyn Keene
Nancy Drew and her friends go to Deep RIver Valley to investigate a missing girl named Janine Horton. I give the book 5 stars because it's full of suspense. In the end the catch the criminal and the missing girl!
​Reviewed by Arielle

​tags: mystery, classic, heroine

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Out of My Mind
            By Sharon Draper
I liked this book because of who it's about and also there are lots of exciting parts in it, but I didn't really like the ending of it. So I would rate this book: 4 Stars!
​Reviewed by Charlotte

tags: realistic fiction, disabilities, school, relationships

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The Swiss Family Robinson
​            By Johann David Wyss
The Swiss Family Robinson, written by Johann Wyss, is an epic story of a family that gets wrecked on a rock near land. The family members were the only survivors of the wreck, so they had to take care of themselves for 13 years! That's right. They had to survive on a huge island by themselves for years. In the last year an English ship came and saved them.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves adventures.
Reviewed by John

tags: classic, adventure, disaster fiction, family

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WeirDo
            By Anh Do
This is a book about a boy named Weir Do. He gets bullied but, there is another boy that gets bullied. They become friends. In the end everyone is friends!
​Reviewed by Maya

tags: humor, series, illustrated, school, bullies

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Mad Love
            By Suzanne Selfors
I give Mad Love by Suzanne Selfors a 5 star review because it is an amazing love story, and is a really good page turner. I think that [art of the moral is to never give up on your family no matter what the conditions are. This book is written in first person by the daughter of the bestselling famous Queen of Romance, and is Alice's own love story. If you want to find out about Alice's life love story, read Mad Love by Suzanne Selfors!
​Reviewed by Valerie

tags: YA, mental health, books about books, fantasy, romance

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Stealing Home
            By Becky Wallace
I give Stealing Home by Becky Wallace a 5 star review  because it is a really good page turner. This book is about true love between two 17 year olds, a girl named Ryan Russell and a guy named Sawyer Campbell. Ryan has her life planned perfectly. She's going to take over her families baseball team, the Buckly Beavers, and master becoming one of the first and so far the only woman general manager in minor league baseball.
Then, Sawyer comes along , and is more charming than anyone Ryan has ever met. The only problem is that dating a player is against the rules. But will rules stop her from saying yes?
Ryan's mom and dad are divorced, but they still share the team. But after Ryan finds out that her mom is going to sell the team, Ryan will take risks in order to save not only the team and her dreams , but her future too. Sawyer and Ryan team up, using Sawyer's popularity to get sponsors to help them make the stadium, field and team character better so more people will like them, which will make Ryan's mom not want to sell the team . But every time Ryan hangs out with him the harder it becomes to follow the rules. WIll Ryan save the Beavers, or will her future be destroyed?
Reviewed by Valerie

tags: YA, sports, baseball, romance, realistic fiction

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Into the Wild (Warriors #1)
            By Erin Hunter
The main character in the story is a house cat named Rusty who one day goes past his fence and into the woods. He runs into a wild cat also called a clan cat. After he fends off the clan cat he meets two other cats who offer him the option to join the clan. Rusty decides that he will leave his home and join the clan.
Once he joins the clan his name is switched to Finepaw. He then embarks on an enchanting journey to become a warrior cat.
I liked this book because it was action packed and full of suspense. I would recommend this book to readers who like cats and fantasy.
Reviewed by Timmy

tags: series, action, adventure, animals, cats

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Stolen
             By Lucy Christopher
I give Stolen by Lucy Christopher a five star review because it is an amazing page turner. Stolen is about a girl named Gemma who was supposed to be getting on a plane to Vietnam in an hour with her parents, but someone else has a different life plan for Gemma. It all starts when a guy named Ty offers to buy Gemma's coffee for her, and then asks her to sit down and talk. Ty asks Gemma, "Wouldn't you rather go to Australia?" Gemma answers sarcastically, "Sure, doesn't everyone want to go there?!" Then, a few minutes later Ty grabs her by the wrist, pulls her away, and the world goes dark. When she wakes up she's in a bed in the middle of nowhere. Soon, she figures out that the middle of nowhere is the middle of Australia with literally no people other than them for hundreds of miles. Ty then expects her to love him. Ty loves so much but when Gemma gets bit by a poisonous snake will Ty let Gemma die , or will he show himself to the police and get arrested to save Gemma's life? Will Gemma love Ty back or will she try to escape? Read Stolen by Lucy Christopher to find out.
Reviewed by Valerie

tags: YA, realistic fiction, kidnapping, romance?, abuse

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Mr. Lemocello's Library (Mr. Lemoncello's Library #1)
            By Chris Grabenstein
To rate Mr. Lemoncello's Library I would rate it a 10! Because it's a mystery and they need to get out of the library and they need to find and solve clues. If you like mysteries and clue solving this is the book for you!
10 Star Rating!!!
​Reviewed by Lily

tags: mystery, series, library, books about books, games

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Mr. Lemoncello's All-Star Breakout Game (Mr. Lemoncello's Library #4)
            By Chris Grabenstein
Mr. Lemoncello's Library #4 is a very great book. Mr. Lemoncello creates a virtual reality game for 3 teens, to race through. The prize is having their own show on TV. The teams are Kyle and his friends, Charles and some 8th graders, and some kids that are stars on TV. Haley, Kyle's friend,s is one of them. They all play games related to different types of fiction. Mythology, comics, horror, even historical fiction. In the end Haley wins but Kyle and his friends are invited to be on the show with Haley.
​Reviewed by Charlotte

tags: series, library, books about books, mystery, games

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The Magician's Nephew (The Chronicles of Narnia)
            By C.S. Lewis
I liked this book but, I don't think it would be the best bok I have ever read. This book has quite a lot of fantasy, I'm not much of a fantasy person, but I gave it a try. If you like fantasy then you should read this book. I would rate this book: 3 1/2 Stars
​Reviewed by Arielle

tags: series, fantasy, classic, adventure, religion

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The War That Saved My Life
            By Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Ada is a 10 year old girl that leaves her mean mom. It was during WW2 when kids were taken out of London to be safe in the country. Ada got a new happy life.
​Reviewed by Maya

tags: historical fiction, series, great stone face, WW2, child abuse

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The New Ashley (Sleepover Girls)
            By Jen Jones
Ashley is one of the Sleepover Girls. She is the only one in her group that likes fashion. Sometimes she feels lonely. But one day a girl named Sophie comes and everything changes. Sophie takes Ashley away from her friends. The Sleepover Girls are upset that Ashley isn't spending time with them anymore. Sophie has a big sleepover and says sorry to the other girls, also they have manicures and pedicures.
​Reviewed by Sophia

tags: realistic fiction, series, friendship, fashion

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Return of the Padawan (Star Wars Jedi Academy #2)
            By Jeffrey Brown
Star Wars Jedi Academy: Return of the Padawan by Jeffrey Brown is a great book. It's a good second book in the Jedi Academy series. The Jedi Academy is like real life even though it is Star Wars it still has stuff like, real life problems with bullys and other things. What I really like about the series is it's not a normal comic, the main character Roan journals in it and there are pages about stiff like, Roan's report card, and things Yoda said this week. Roan has a little brother named Ollie and once in a while there's a page that has a letter from him to Roan. In all book one and two in Jedi Academy are really good. I am working on the third one right now. I highly recommend this book it's such a good series so far. I give it five out of five stars.
​Reviewed by Ben

tags: series, star wars, school, illustrated, bullies

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Bird and Squirrel: All Tangled Up
            By James Burks
I give this book 5 stars because it's exciting and fun to read. The book is about a bird and 3 squirrels. The squirrel's names are Squirrel, Red, and Birdie. The bird's name is Bird. It's about their adventure to find bigfeet. When the mom left to go drop some stuff off they went to look for the big feet. Later they got webbed up by a giant spider, then Birdie saved everyone.
Red's the mom, Squirrel's the dad, Birdie's their daughter, and Bird's the fun uncle.
Reviewed by Judah.

tags: graphic novel, animals, humor, series

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Willow's Boy-Crazy Birthday (Sleepover Girls)
            By Jen Jones
I really liked this book.
Willow and her twin brother, Winston, are planning their Halloween birthday party. Willow's three best friends always have a sleepover the night before the birthday party. Willow is nervous about being a hostess and wants everything to go well. Luckily Willow has the Sleepover Girls (her friends) to help her while her brother does nothing.
Reviewed by Sophia

tags: realistic fiction, twins, birthday party, series, friendship

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The Name of God is Mercy
            By Pope Francis
The Name of God is Mercy is one of those wonderful books which opens to us the heart of a great person. It reveals to us part of the depth and beauty of His Holiness Pope Francis' unique relationship with God - the christian God, our merciful father. This book shows us only why Pope Francis emphasizes mercy in his words and actions.
Reviewed by Michael

tags: nonfiction, religion, christianity, Pope Frankie

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Super Heroes Save the Day
            By Trey King
I am reviewing a Superman, Batman, and Robin book, also known as "Super Heroes Save the Day!" I hate when Joker and Harley QUinn throw a big pie at the city. I hate when Joker and Bain find Batman's hideout with a atnk drill. I like when RObin swoops and knocks down Mr. Freeze. And I like when he shoots bullets at the Joker. I hate when Joker, Harley Quinn, Poison Ivy, and Bain take over the city. I hate when they try to shoot Batman.
​Reviewed by Micah

tags: superheroes, super powers, Batman, Superman, Lego, I can read

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Lentil
            By Robert McCloskey
There was once a boy named Lentil. He wanted to sing but couldn't, when he tried to only wind sounds came out. So he saved up to buy a harmonica. He played whenever he could. He played to school. There was an old man named Sneep, he didn't like Lentil's music. The great Col. Carter who had been away for years was finally coming back. They were decorating the town and Lentil was going to play. Col. Carter was just pulling in the town, the town was waiting for him and Lentil was getting ready to play. Then they heard Sneep slurping a lemon and it made the band pucker and they could not play. When Col. Carter stepped from the train Lentil played "Comin' 'Round the Mountain." Col. Carter loved it.
That is the story of Lentil.
Reviewed by Reed and Oliver

tags: picture book, classic, music, parades

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The Mystery of Black Hollow Lane (Black Hollow Lane #1)
            By Julia Nobel
The Book The Mystery of Black Hollow Lane by Julia Nobel is a thrilling adventure and a page-turning mystery. It is about an American girl going to an English boarding school that her dad went to when he was young. At the school she searches for more answers about her lost dad. This book is great for Harry Potter fans and anyone looking for a good mystery.
Reviewed by Amelia

tags: mystery, boarding school, thriller, secret orders 

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A True Home (Heartwood Hotel #1)
           By Kallie George
I think that this book is very sweet and loving. A mouse that loses everything she has. Her family, her home, and friends. But soon a whole new adventure starts! I love this book because it has animals, is not funny, and is serious. 
I give this book...
            5 Stars!
        *****
Reviewed by Arielle

tags: animals, mice, illustrated, cute, friendship

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Encyclopedia Brown (series)
            By Donald Sobol
Encyclopedia Brown are short mysteries that are very enjoyable to read. Encyclopedia is given a mystery to solve but when he solves it it is not an obvious answer. You either figure out the answer yourself or find it in the back of the book. Sometimes you can find the answer sometimes you can't but Encyclopedia always finds it!
Reviewed by Lilly

tags: classic, mystery, short

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One Tough Chick (Annabelle Unleashed #4)
            By Leslie Margolis

I think you should read this book because it was funny. If you like funny love stories you should read this book. I think you should be about 10-12 to be able to read this book. For a scale of 1-5 stars I would say 5 stars (*****) in my opinion it was very good, so you should read it. :)
reviewed by anonymous

tags: realistic fiction, school, talent show

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The Cruel Prince (The Folk of Air #1)
            By Holly Black

The Cruel Prince is about a girl who was kidnapped and taken to Fairieland with her sisters when she was seven years old. Ten years later, Jude has almost no memory of life in the human world and has been raised like a fairiechild, despite being mortal. Most fairies accept her, like her adoptive parents Madoc and Oriana, but others outright hate her, like Prince Carden, the youngest son of the High King of Fairie. For Jude, life is about as normal as it can get in Fairie, until Prince Carden's older brother, Prince Dain, asks her to become one of his spies, based solely on the fact she can lie, which fairies cannot do. Jude is forced into the world of palace intrigue, and treacherous plots. When the unthinkable happens, Jude must find a way to keep herself and her alliances (spies don't to "friends") safe before they all end up dead. Bright, sunshiney book, right?
Reviewed by Grace

tags: YA, series, dark fantasy, politics, spies

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Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life
            By James Patterson

This book review is about Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life, The author is James Patterson and yes this author might sound familiar since he has wrote more than 50 books. Now the characters of this book are: Rafe (the main character), Leo (Rafe's only friend), Georgia (Rafe's little sister), Jules (Rafe's mom), and Carl (Rafe's stepfather but Rafe calls him Bear). This book is about Leo gives Rafe a challenge to break all the school rules before school is over it is called Operation Rafe. Will Rafe accept the challenge? Will they get in trouble? Read for yourself and find out! It is a really funny book.
Reviewed by Lauren

tags: realistic fiction, school, better than the movie, funny, series

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The Secrets of Mirror Bay (Nancy Drew Mysteries #49)
            By Carolyn Keene

Nancy goes in vacation with her friends on Mirror Bay. She has two mysteries to solve, the first one is finding a child's Russian coach that had supposedly been lowered into the lake 150 years ago in a glass box. The second mystery is to find the "green man" that lives in the first and is said to be a sorcerer. Nancy uncovers the green man's reasons for scaring people as well as the real reason he is there. She even finds the child's Russian coach at the bottom of the bay.
Reviewed by anonymous

tags: classic, mystery, heroine

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The Hidden Window Mystery (Nancy Drew Mysteries #34)
            By Carolyn Keene

Nancy goes to visit her friend in Charlottesville when she sees an ad in the newspaper for a missing medieval stained glass window. Nancy encounters other mysteries while solving the stain glass window mystery including the mysterious screeches coming from Cumberland Manor. In the end Nancy finds he missing stain glass window as well as finds the screeches are peacocks!
Reviewed by anonymous

tags: classic, mystery, heroine

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The Clue of the Leaning Chimney (Nancy Drew Mysteries #26)
            By Carolyn Keene

Nancy's friend Dick Milton borrowed an antique Chinese vase from a Chinese man called Mr. Soong. Nancy is also told about a place with a leaning chimney that has a special deposit of fine while clay. Both searches lead to an enclosed part of the woods. In the end she gets back the pot and finds the clay. She also finds some friends of Mr. Soong's that have been missing for 4 1/2 years!
Reviewed by anonymous

tags: classic, mystery, heroine

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War Horse
            By Michael Morpurgo

War Horse is about a horse that goes to war, in the first world war. He helps both English and the Germans, and he does all different kids of things. He makes it through the war just to see his well loved owner Albert.
Reviewed by Charlotte

tags: historical fiction, WW1, animals, horses, army, adventure, better than the movie

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Mr. Lemoncello's Great Library Race (Mr. Lemoncello's Library #3)
            By Chris Grabenstein

Kyle and his friends run around the USA to find clues to different facts about people in order to find out who will go on tour with Mr. Lemoncello. But then a lady comes and says Mr. Lemoncello is a fraud. Kyle must prove they are wrong before time runs out.
Reviewed by Charlotte

tags: series, mystery, library, adventure, books about books

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The Mystery on Cabin Island (Hardy Boys #8)
            By Franklin W. Dixon

Frank and Joe Hardy are invited to stay on Cabin Island but in return of the nice gesture are asked to solve two mysteries. One is to find Mr. Jefferson's missing grandson and the other is to find 12 missing ceremonial medals. Which they do successfully over Christmas break.
Reviewed by Charlotte

tags: classic, mystery, Christmas

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The Hidden Stairs and Magic Carpet (Secrets of Droon #1)
            By Tony Abbott

One sunny day Eric invited his two best friends, Neal and Julie, to play soccer at his house. But his mother tells him to clean the basement. Eric and his friends go downstairs but Neal kicks the ball into a small side room. When the ball tumbles down a mysterious staircase Eric and his friends are introduced to the magical world of Droon.
This book is so good you'll want to read the whole series!
​Reviewed by Timmy

tags: series, fantasy, magic, adventure

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Who Was Michael Jackson?
            By Megan Stine

I just read "Who Was Michael Jackson?" by Megan Stine. It's so awesome I had to read it again. I mean who would have known that his hair caught on fire while filming a Pepsi commercial? If you like learning about records and all sorts of stuff about music you will like this book.
Reviewed by Grayson

​tags: nonfiction, biography, music, king of pop

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I Survived the San Francisco Earthquake, 1906
            By Lauren Tarshis

I just read "I Survived the San Francisco Earthquake, 1906" by Lauren Tarshis. I think it's a good book because it shows you people living a common lifestyle in 1906 but there is also a unique part about them, and for instance there was a boy in the story who got a gold nugget from his Granpa. My point is it's a good book, peace out.
​Reviewed by Grayson

tags: historical fiction, disaster fiction, adventure

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The Lemonade Crime
            By Jacqueline Davies

It was Jessie and Evan's fourth day of fourth grade. The previous week $208 disappeared from Evan's shirt pocket. They think Scott Spencer is the culprit. But is he?
Join Jessie, Evan, and the rest of their class as they put Scott on trial on this exciting sequel to The Lemonade War.
If you liked The Lemonade War, you'll love this book.
Reviewed by Timmy

tags: series, realistic fiction, mystery, justice, law, playground

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Shadow Weaver
            By MarcyKate Connolly

Shadow Weaver is about a young girl named Emmeline who was born with the ability to control the shadows. Her best friend is her shadow who is named Dar. Together, Emmeline and Dar play games and pull tricks on the servants at Emmeline's parents' grand estate. However, after one too many tricks gone wrong, Emmeline's parents start to believe her magic is dangerous so they jump at the chance when a mysterious woman named Lady Aisling offers a cure. After a man with Lady Aisling is discovered in a coma, everyone suspects Emmeline. Faced with criminal charges, Emmeline and Dar are forced to run away. Dar says she knows a spell that will make her flesh and help set everything right. Emmeline starts to gather the ingredients, but begins to doubt that Dar is as loyal and truthful as Emmeline always thought she was. This is a great dark fantasy story that will make you question if shadows really are as flat to the wall or ground as they seem.
​Reviewed by Grace

tags: fantasy, series, magic, spooky, mystery

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Who Was Milton Hershey?
            By James Buckley Jr

I just read Who Was Milton Hershey for the second time, because I liked it so much the first time, I just had to read it again. The book talks about Milton Hershey's life and what he accomplished while he was alive. It turns out he used to make caramels! Anyone who likes chocolate and caramels will enjoy this book!
​Reviewed by Grayson

tags: nonfiction, biography, chocolate

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Legend
            By Marie Lu

The realistic fiction book Legend by Marie Lu is an action packed story about a criminal who should be a hero. I think the theme of this book is you should always keep trying to do what's right no matter what. I think this is because the protagonist Day had so many opportunities to hide away and be safe but he chose to do what's right and save the people he loved. I would rate this book a 4 1/2 out of 5 because there was something missing I just can't figure out what. I would recommend this book to people who like a book that's action packed to the last word.
​Reviewed by Kate

​tags: YA, series, dystopia, post apocalyptic, action, adventure, light romance

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Whisper to Me
            By Nick Lake

Whisper to Me by Nick Lake is a realistic fiction book of a really messed up love letter (email). Cass, the protagonist, hears a voice and that voice is what led her to losing her only friend, but if he forgives her he will meet her on the pier. It takes place in Oakwood, New jersey, where the Houdini Killer has recently been taking "sex workers." I think the theme of this book is love yourself so you can love others because they believe the "voice" is a manifestation of Cass' inner hatred toward herself and when she loves herself so will the voice. I would rate Whisper to Me a 5 out of 5 because it had a really good storyline and the way it was written from Cass' perspective really got me involved.
Reviewed by Kate

tags: YA, realistic fiction, romance, mental health, mystery

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Playing With Fire (Slayers #3)
            By C.J. Hill

Slayers: Playing With Fire by C.J. Hill is a fictional book about dragons and what their impact would be if they were real. It takes place in Virginia, and Maryland. The main character Tori Hampton is a senators daughter. Everyone says she's a prissy stuck-up snob but in the end she saves them all. I think the theme of Slayers is that if you believe in yourself you can do anything. I think this is because at the end of the book Tory believed in herself abd they succeeded. I would give Slayers a 5 out of 5 rating because it had everything I like, adventure, mystery, suspense, fiction, and a little bit of romance. If you like these things I would recommend  Slayers: Playing With Fire.
​Reviewed by Kate

tags: YA, series, super powers, dragons, fantasy, adventure

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Night
            By Elie Wiesel

The book Night by Elie Wiesel is about a twelve year old boy named Eliezer. Chapter one writes about how Nazis deported all the Jews in sight. Eliezer and his family are herded into ghettos. Eliezer and his dad lie about their ages so they are seen as "strong" men. They are shipped to Auschwitz where they witness people being killed and other sick people dying slowly and painfully. They have to run everyday and serve as "slaves" for the Nazis.
​Reviewed by Emily

tags: YA, historical fiction, WW2, biography

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Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes
            By Eleanor Coerr

The Book Sadako by Eleanor Coerr is a book about a young girl, Sadako, who learns that she has leukemia, the aftermath of an atomic bomb the United States dropped on the city of Hiroshima, Japan. Sadako wanted to have 1,000 paper cranes hanging in her hopsital bedroom because according to an old myth, in order to heal and recover from leukemia you needed to make 1,000 paper cranes. All of Sadako's friends came and visited her and made cranes. Even her siblings contributed lots of cranes before passing away.
Reviewed by Emily

tags: historical fiction, Japan, death+dying

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New Shoes
            by Sara Varon

The book New Shoes by Sara Varon is about a donkey who is a shoemaker in the jungle. His shoes are famous and one day a celebrity asks for shoes made by him. Francis (the donkey) counts on his friend Nigel to get his supplies for his shoes. But when he goes to get his supplies for his shoes Nigel is missing. So Francis and his friend Rhonda set out to find Nigel and Francis's supplies. This book is really fun and educational because the author puts many facts about the jungle in it. I would recommend this book to people who like adventure and animals. I would give this book four and half stars!
Reviewed by Amelia

tags: graphic novel, animals, music, cute

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Shelters of Stone (Earth's Children #5)
            By Jean M. Auel

Shelter of Stone is the 5th book in Jean M. Auel's Earth's Children series. The series is about a woman Ayla who was orphaned at a young age going through a very exciting and eventful life. The shelters of stone are the homes of Ayla's mate's people the Zelandonii. I think the big idea of the shelters of stone is that no matter what people think you should always be true to yourself. I think this is because Ayla was tricked by a jealous woman and faced the ridicule of the cave with her chin held high and soon it  was the jealous woman's turn  to be embarrassed. I would rate Shelter of Stone a 4 out of 5 because the author had excessive descriptions of plants that had no part in the book. I would recommend this book for people who would like a history lesson with twists, turns, intrigue, and the no so subtleties of romance.
​Reviewed by Kate

tags: adult, historical fiction, cro-magnon, neanderthal, romance, adventure

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The Puppy Place: Buddy
            by Ellen Miles

​This is a junior fiction book written by Ellen Miles, an author from Vermont who loves to write about dogs and their personalities.
In this particular book the main character, Lizzy, falls in love with a dog family she finds in the animal shelter. After a long struggle with her mom, Lizzy finally persuades her to foster the puppies and their mother.
The most hilarious scene is when Buddy ends up sleep in his own food. Buddy has to learn how to eat without nursing. They give him some puppy warm food that he does not recognize as food and just sleeps in it!
I recommend this book to anyone who loves puppies and their funny ways.
​Reviewed by John.

tags: series, animals, dogs, cute

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Word of Mouse
            By James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein

Raised in a laboratory science a baby a blue mouse named Isaiah who can talk and laugh and read like me and you wanted to do something amazing, so he set out to find a way to help save his family from the horrible place. But he can only do so by leaving his mischief behind.
He was hard at work unaware of what he may come upon which turned out to be a 12 year old girl Hailey who helped Isaiah save his family, Isaiah started to lose his trust in Hailey thinking she was the daughter of the mad man at the horrible place. So he ran away and found an other mischief of mice.
Isaiah was really good at finding food so he made a deal that if Isaiah got them food they would find and help Isaiah and his family.
In the end Isaiah ends up being the hero by saving his family and they live a life of and less food at the house with the new mischief of mice.
​Reviewed By Jennifer

tags: animals, mice, adventure, illustrated

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The War That Saved My Life
            By Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

They story starts off with a 10 year old girl Ada and her 8 year old little brother Jamie. Ada is forced to stay in her one room apartment because her mum is humiliated by Ada's crippled foot. Ada's Mum ties her a chair and doesn't even let her go to the bathroom. She sleeps on the floor and is fed with cockroaches in a cramped cupboard, she isn't sent to school and has no education or knowledge at all.
In the mean time the Hitler war is going on in their home town. Her brother is sent out of London to escape the war, Ada is not. But Ada will not let her brother be separated, especially in a horrid time like this, so she runs away with him. Ada and Jamie find themselves ended up with an older woman Susan who is only used to taking care of herself and her horse Butter, which Ada falls in love with.
During her time at Susan's house Ada starts to teach herself how to read, ride a pony, and watch for German spies. Ada begins to gain trust in Susan, and Susan us gaining trust in them. Susan is beginning to love Ada and Jamie very much and she is trying to do everything she can to help Ada's foot but can only be done with their mum's permission which is denied.
Now we are nearing the part of the book when Ada and Jamie's Mum comes and takes them back to London. Their house becomes bombed and Mum takes the crutches and shoes away from Ada. Susan finds them in the shelter and brings them back far away from London where they find her house is bombed as well.
But it all turns out swell when Lady Thorton (one of the richest women in London) agrees to lend her little summer cottage in the middle of town. this is where they spend the rest of their time in the book whiles their house is being rebuilt.
Now YOU need to be the reader to find out what happens in the next book, The War I Finally Won!
Reviewed by Jennifer

tags: historical fiction, series, great stone face, WW2, child abuse

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Heist Society
            By Ally Carter

Heist Society is about a fifteen-year-old girl named Katarina Bishop whose family specializes in robbing some of the world's most priceless objects. However, Kat has left the family business and is more than happy to spend the rest of her year at the exclusive Colgan School. Unfortunately, after an extremely difficult job makes Kat's dad the prime and only suspect, she is forced back into her old life of crime. Now Kat must bargain with the very rich and very deadly Arturo Taccone who believes that her father has what was stolen from him and wants it back. Despite Kat swearing that her father is innocent, Taccone gives her twelve days to give back the goods, or her father becomes his next target. This is an amazing book that you won't want to put down. Ally carter has written a number of books for young adults, including the Gallagher Girls series, and this is a perfect next read for people who have finished that series and are looking for what to read next.
​Reviewed by Grace

tags: YA, series, mystery, crime, thriller

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Prince Caspian (Chronicles of Narnia #2)
​          By C. S. Lewis
Prince Caspian is the fourth* book of Narnia, written by C. S. Lewis. It's about a prince in Narnia called Caspian and four children who lived in England.
In Narnia Prince Caspian had to escape from his uncle, the King. Prince Caspian had to call the children into Narnia with a magic horn. In the story the four children help Prince Caspian to defeat his uncle in a long battle.
I recommend this book to anyone who liked the Narnia series, battles, and adventures.
Reviewed by John
*- Prince Caspian was published second in this series, but chronologically comes fourth.

tags: fantasy, series, adventure, religious, classic, courage

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My Life in Pink and Green
          By Lisa Greenwald
Lucy Desberg is a twelve-year-old daughter and granddaughter of the owners of Old Mill Pharmacy. When she finds out that the pharmacy is in danger of closing, she comes up with a plan to help out. Lucy starts doing other girls' makeup to raise money. Then she finds a "going green" grant at Earth Club. The grant is supported by the mayor of her town, and will give money to any business that wants to go green. Lucy thinks that the perfect way to save the pharmacy is to start an eco spa, so she applies for the grant.
I really liked this book, and I would recommend it to anyone who wants a cheery read about a very optimistic girl who is determined to save her family's pharmacy.
Reviewed by Grace

tags: family life, mother-daughter, cosmetics, environmental, jobs and careers

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Stuart Little
          By E. B. White
This book is about a mouse named Stewart Little. One day he went to a park and drove a toy boat named The Wasp. In the boat race a man fell in the water. After the race his brother George put him out.
Reviewed by Jack

tags: adventure, animals, classic, mouse, family favorite

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Talons of Power (Wings of Fire #9)
          By Tui Sutherland
I thought this was an amazing book because it was surprising book, how it ended was absolutely amazing.
Reviewed by Adian

tags: fantasy, magic, dragons, adventure, prophecies


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Awkward
          By Svetlana Chmakova
This book review is about a graphic novel called Awkward! it is by Svetlana Chmakova. It is about a new girl at her school! I really really loved this book and so will you. I recommend this book to ages 8 and up.
Reviewed by Lauren

tags: graphic novel, middle school, friendship, realistic fiction, science, art

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Matilda
​          By Roald Dahl
This book review is about an all-time classic, Matilda. most of you might know what I'm talking about, others i would be glad to explain it to you. It is by... Roald Dahl! It is about a girl mistreated by her parents, and principal. She also has a great teacher, Miss Honey. I love the book and movie.
Reviewed by Lauren

tags: classic, humor, magic, Dahl House

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Ghosts
          By Raina Telgemeier
This book is about Maya and her big sister Cat. Cat's sister has a disease called Cystic Fibrosis, it affect breathing and digestion. Maya was born with it and her sister is scared about Maya dying. There is no cure, sadly. Cat and her family are moving to Southern California in Bahia de la Luna. Cat and Maya miss their friends very badly. The sun only shines 62 days a year. Cat meets a new kid and he tells her that there's ghosts and she is super scared.
Reviewed by Riona

tags: graphic novel, ghost story, paranormal, family life, family favorite

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Winter Turning (Wings of Fire #7)
​          By Tui Sutherland
Winter Turning is the best book so far! My favorite part was the end. Best book series ever! The cool thing about these books is that they have pictures that shows what the characters look like.
​Reviewed by Adian

tags: fantasy, series, magic, adventure, prophecies, dragons

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Moon Rising (Wings of Fire #6)
          By Tui Sutherland
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Good book! The beginning was my favorite part of the whole book. I can't wait to finish the whole series, then I'm going to read the whole series over again!
​Reviewed by Adian

tags: fantasy, series, magic, dragons, adventure, prophecies

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The Bridge to Never Land
          By Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson
The Bridge to Never Land is a high flying book that reels in the fantasy world and the real world. It tells the interesting story of two kids who happen to find an old document from their favorite series... and suddenly they're a part of it! This book is a great reason to believe that might be too crazy.
​Reviewed by Riley

tags: YA, fantasy, adventure, Peter Pan, magic, humor, mystery

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Tunnels
          By Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams

Tunnels, by Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams, is a "deep" story about two boys and a father who get too curious when they find a while city underground. This book makes you dig into your imagination and gets the reader to wonder: Is there a whole other world under us?

Reviewed by Riley

tags: sci-fi/fantasy, dystopia, mystery, adventure

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Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
          By J.K. Rowling
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is a must read book by J.K. Rowling. This book is for all ages! I would rate this book beyond 5 stars! In this book the main character Harry Potter gets revealed to his true identity of being a wizard. He also finds out that he is the most popular boy in the wizarding world. But being popular comes with having enemies. Not just in his new wizarding school does he have an enemy but outside of the school he has the evilest wizard Lord Voldemort hunting him. But Harry finds two friends that will help him defeat both of his enemies, Ron Weasely and Hermione Granger. The trio embarks on an amazing adventure as Harry learns the way of the wizards. Readers will love this book because of the adventure and imagination. I think that J.K. Rowling does a great job making the characters have a lot of depth and i would definitely want Hermione as my friend because she is so kind and witty. I also love J.K. Rowling comes up with lots of words and creatures. I <3 Harry Potter!
​Reviewed by Amelia

​tags: fantasy, series, fantasy, magic, classic, family favorite

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Eyewitness: Battle
          By Richard Holmes
Eyewitness: Battle is an information book on modern and historical warfare, from ancient civilization to the modern era. It is a great beginner's guide to the weapons and tactics used by a range of societies and cultures through many conflicts, from ancient battles, to medieval sieges, to Napoleonic warfare in Europe and right into modern global conflicts in Africa and the Middle East.
​I would recommend this book to anyone interested in historical warfare.
Reviewed by Michael

tags: nonfiction, history, war, 

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The Red Pyramid (The Kane Chronicles #1)
​          By Rick Riordan
The Red Pyramid is about siblings Carter and Sadie Kane, who find out that they are Egyptian magicians. Their father disappears and Egyptian gods are after them. Carter and Sadie are the most powerful magicians in their family for thousands of years, and they have to defeat an old evil to rescue their father. I liked the book and would definitely recommend it to anyone who liked Percy Jackson or Harry Potter.
​Reviewed by Grace

tags: series, mythology, magic, adventure, siblings

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A Long Walk to Water (part 2)
​          By Linda Sue Park

​In the second half of A  Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park, two separate stories entangled and resolved and solves both stories' problems. Salva, who grows up to be 20, goes around Sudan building wells and schools for those in need. Nya's sister becomes healthy and Salva finds his family.
​Reviewed by anonymous

tags: historical fiction, Sudan, Africa, war

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A Long Walk to Water (part 1)
          By Linda Sue Park

​In the first half of A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park, two stories are told in a different time periods but similar scenarios. Salva, a young boy from the southern Sudan tells the story of his war stricken village in 1885-2009. He escapes his village without his family. This 11 year old travels with a group of adult men until after about a year he finally makes it to a refugee camp and away from the war.
Nya, whom the second story is about, is an 11 year old girl, also living in a southern Sudan. Her story takes place in 2008-2009. Everyday, Nya walks a long distance to find water. She does this everyday until her little sister gets sicks. She can only drink clean water, which cannot be provided for her. Nya will have to find clean water or suffer over the loss of her sister.
Reviewed by anonymous

tags: historical fiction, Sudan, Africa, war

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The Magician's Nephew
​          By C.S. Lewis

​The Magician's Nephew is about the nephew of someone who thinks is a magician. This "magician" made two kinds of rings: yellow rings and green rings. He tricked his nephew's friend, Polly, into trying a yellow ring. The yellow ring made people go into what the "magician" thought was another world. Then his nephew tried on a yellow ring too and suddenly appeared in a pool in a wood that would later be called "the wood between the worlds." 
Later on the boy and girl tried green rings and jumped into a pool, and appeared in a land called Narnia.
​I recommend this book to anyone who likes adventures.
​Reviewed by John

tags: fantasy, series, religious, family favorite, classics

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​Misty of Chincoteague
          By Marguerite Henry 
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My book review is about Misty of Chincoteague. It's by Marguerite Henry. The two main characters are Paul, and his sisters name is Mareen. It is about horses. It takes place on Chincoteague. It is a good story and I recommend this book to all ages! I really really hope you read this book and I hope you like it!

tags: animals, horses, historical fiction

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Paris For Two
          By Phoebe Stone
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This book review is about Paris For Two. I love this book because it is about pairs. The main character is Petunia Beanly. She is 12 and had to move to Paris. I love this book also because it is just a great story. I also hope you enjoy this book. I recommend it to anyone who has ever dreamed to go to Paris.
​Reviewed by Lauren

tags: romance, France, Paris, travel, family

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Smile!
          By Raina Telgemeier
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This book review is about a book called Smile! It is by Raina Telgemmeier. It is also a graphic novel. And therte are lots of characters in this book! It's about a girl named Raina it's kind of a true story. I really, really love this book and so will you!
​Reviewed by Lauren

​tags: graphic novel, realistic fiction, coming of age, family

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Ready Player One
​          By Ernest Cline

Ready Player One is a book about a young orphan who goes to school through a virtual reality machine known as Oasis where the creator hid easter eggs (something hidden in a game) so hard to find it took 20 year for the first real clue found by this young orphan who with some help discovered the easter egg.
​Reviewed by anonymous

tags: YA, sci-fi, dystopia, adventure, cyber punk

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Sisters
          By Raina Telgemeier

This book review is about a book called Sisters. It is also Raina Telgemeier. This book is part of a series called Smile! I would recommend this book to sisters that fight and at the end apologize in the end. I really really love this book I hope you do too!
​Reviewed by Lauren

​​tags: graphic novel, realistic fiction, coming of age, family

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Archie comics
          By Bob Montana

The Archie Comics by Bob Montana and John L. Goldwater is a funny comic series about a clumsy teenage boy, his friend and his life. I like it becaise it has funny jokes that I get and can sometimes relate with. It also has some realistic scenes and some totally unreal scenes that are hilarious. That is why I enjoy Archie Comics so much!
​Reviewed by Kate

tags: graphic novel, local, classic

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The Last Ever After (The School For Good and Evil)
          by Soman Chainani

The School For Good and Evil The Last Ever After by Soman Chainani is a book about two friends who live where fairy tales are idolized and loved but every 4 years a mysterious shadow kidnaps 2 children one fair and good and one unimaginably evil to go to a school for good and evil where children are trained to live through their fairy tales. Evil for villains and good for princes and princesses. Sophie a golden haired princess has been dreaming of the school for good and her very own ever after while Agatha the ugly "witch" has been wishing to just stay home with Sophie, mother and cat and is determined to save Sophie from the "school master." But there has been a "mistake." Agatha has been sent to the beautiful school for good while Sophie is thrown into the ugly school for evil. Now Sophie and Agatha are battling to find a way home through a torn apart friendship princes and fights to the death, what will become of there friends who are willing to do anything to be together again, but what if, a prince is added to the equation?
​Reviewed by Kate

tags: YA, fantasy, fairy tale, adventure, romance

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The BFG
          By Roald Dahl

The BFG is the friendliest oddest and smallest giant imaginable. Sophie was stolen away to Giant Country at the Witching Hour where all the strange and dark things come out. Giant Country is a barren landscape where the only thing that grows are the horrible vile disgusting snozzcumbers!
Sophie must now live in the dark Giant Country until she must save the children of England with the help from the Big Friendly Giant.
Reviewed by Kate

tags: Dahl house, classic, family favorite, fantasy, humor

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Charlotte's Web
          By E. B. White

I give Charlotte's Web a 10 out of 10 review because it is a story of friendship, love, and kindness.
Charlotte's Web shows what true friendship is and how hard it is to find it. The main character Wilbur is a young pig who is more than a ham. He is "some pig" he is "terrific" he is "radiant" and he is "humble" but he must show Mr. Zuckerman who he is before Christmas. With the help of his spider friend Charlotte his fate is decided.
Reviewed by Kate

​tags: classic, family favorite, animals, pigs, spiders, fantasy

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"The Difficult Path" (Flying Lessons & Other Stories)
          By Grace Lin, Edited by Ellen Oh

In the second chapter of "Flying Lessons & Other Stories" a young girl was adopted by a poor family that could do little to help her. In her new home, she has lots of siblings, one of which she absolutely hates. She learns to speak English at the age of six and is very smart. When the siblings that she hates comes of age to marry, she is devastated to hear that she might have to marry her repulsive brother. She is crushed with the bad news, when a gang of pirates comes and lets her escape if she teaches them English. She now sails the seas with her new family.
Reviewed by Emily

tags: short story, family, adoption

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"How to Transform an Everyday Hoop Court Into a Place of Higher Learning and You at the Podium" (Flying Lessons & Other Stories)
          By Matt de la Pena, Edited by Ellen Oh

In "Flying Lessons and Other Stories," the first story is about a young boy who dreams of being a basketball star takes on his dream and signs up to play with older kids. He things that it will be a piece of cake to join this advanced league, but he has to work through many challenges to overcome the difficult obstacles other players throw at him. In the end, he succeeds in the league and impresses all the people that ever doubted him.
Reviewed by Emily

tags: short story, sports

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Sugar
         By Jewel Parker Rhodes

​I read a book called Sugar, which was written by Jewel Parker Rhodes. This book is about an African American girl who lives on a sugar plantation along the Mississippi River. Sugar's mother died when she was very young and Sugar doesn't remember her father, who left then when she was very young. Working on the plantation is hard work, but Sugar manages to work hard and have fun. The only problem with having fun is that the person she likes to play with is the owner's white son, who has been forbidden from seeing her. Aside from Sugar's forbidden friendship, she is making friends with the Chinese man who just moved to the plantation. I really enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to other kids.
Reviewed by anonymous

tags: historical fiction, African-American, slavery

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Stella by Starlight
​          By Sharon M. Draper

I read a book called Stella by Starlight, which was written by Sharon M. Draper. This book is about an African American girl who lives in Bumblebee, North Carolina during the Depression. Stella and her family were threatened by the Ku Klux Klan after her father went to vote. Shortly thereafter, another family in the village had their house burned down by the Ku Klux Klan. I really enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to other kids.
Reviewed by anonymous

tags: historical fiction, segregation, siblings

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Peril at the Top of the World (Treasure Hunters #4)
          By James Patterson

I am doing a book review about the book Treasure Hunters: Peril at the Top of the World by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein. The book is about a family of treasure hunters that witness a robbery and have to try to get the paintings back that were stolen from the museum. There are four kids in the book their names are storm, Beck, Bick, and Tommy, they have parents that they almost lost in the first book in the series. I rate this book 9 out of 10.
​Reviewed by Will

tags: series, adventure, mystery, humor, travel

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Secret of the Forbidden City (Treasure Hunters #3)
          By James Patterson

I am doing a book review about the book Treasure Hunters: Secret of the Forbidden City by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein. This book is about four kids that thought their dad died on a boat in a storm when he was swept out to sea but they found out that their dad is still alive. Now the kids are trying to get a very expensive vase to trade with people that have their mother captive. There are four kids in the book their names are are Storm, Bick, Beck, and Tommy. I rate this book 8 out of 10 stars.
Reviewed by Will

tags: series, adventure, mystery, humor, travel

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Hey! Who Stole the Toilet (George Brown Class Clown #8)
          By Nancy Krulik

​Woo hoo oh boy that camping trip with the Scouts is coming up I hope that *burp* doesn't get in my way. That is the sound of George Brown in sress city. Well, on the first hand George is going with Louie, his worst enemy, but I guess he'll have to get used to it. But part of his wish didn't happeb, his burp did get him into a lot of trouble but his camp teacher would tell them ridiculous stories. Well Louie however is afraid of all sorts of bugs. But Louie mostly to earn the badge that his older brother Sam didn't get. Well that is all I can tell you about this book! This is my review on George Brown Class Clown: Hey Who Stole the Toilet.
Reviewed by Grayson

tags: humor, series, camping

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Dog Man #1
          By Dav Pilkey

Once upon a time there were two little first graders, their names were George and Harold. When they met they found out they had a lot in common. They loved making funny comic books and they also loved to do pranks. And one of their favorite comics when they were little was Dog Man. As time went by they were making billions of of the Dog Man comics. But when they hit 4th grade they got a new idea, he was called Captain Underpants. So they spent days in their tree house making cool comics until one day after an adventurous week they went to their tree house and the weirdest thing happened. Almost all of their comics were gone except for Dog Man. Then they found out they wanted to have a little change and that's why I have chosen to tell you...
Ever since Pete exploded Dog Man's owner he's been fighting crime unleashing his awesomeness. He has defeated Pete before but the first chapter of the book Pete was fighting with his butler over if they could use fire crackers or a ginormous vaccuum. In one point of the book their so-called mayor sent a towb criminal a seal spray so then a replacement robot could take over so Dog Man did at one point defeat them. This is my book review on Dog Man.
​Reviewed by Grayson 

tags: humor, comic, animals, dogs, series

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Big Nate Blasts Off
          By Lincoln Peirce

Ever met someone who just doesn't have a girlfriend? Well this will be a good story! Well enough chit chat, it's story time. Another stupid day until, NOOOOOOO, it's Randy! What's he going to do? Turbo Wedgie? We're going to find out but then Ruby comes around the corner and Randy sees, so he lets go of Nate then runs. But that wasn't all this book was about, the Mud Bowl was coming up and Randy's going to do with Nate. Wow, time flys when you're reading. Well, I can't tell you any more or I'll spoil the book. By for now! Learn more about the book by reading it!
​Reviewed by Grayson

tags: series, humor, comics-prose

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The Ice Cream King
          By Steve Metzger

Mommy mommy can we please go to that ice cream shop?
Have you ever had your kid go crazy about eating ice cream at the ice cream shop? If you have then this ought to be a good story so please pay attention while I flip the page. One day Teddy his mom were walking down the road when Mommy Mommy there is a new ice cream place in town can we please go please? ...Ok, Teddy. So they went in there it was his dream but there was one more thing he had to do here... mom's spoon! Oh, thank you sweety. Blah blah blah, the end.
​Reviewed by Grayson

tags: picture book, food

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The Secret of Wildcat Swamp
          By Franklin W. Dixon

Frank and Joe are asked by a friend named Cap Bailey to go to a place called Wildcat Swamp. Cap wants them to help dig for fossils. But in the same area there are some bad people wanted by the police. TYhey are constantly trying to get Frank and Joe away. But they don't leave, and Frank and Joe discover they are hunting for oil. In the end the bad people finally get caught and put in jail.
Reviewed by Anonymous

tags: series, classic, siblings, mystery, crime, adventure

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The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
          By C.S. Lewis

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is the second book of the Chronicles of Narnia, written by C.S. Lewis. It is about 4 children; Peter, Edmund, Lucy, Susan, and Lucy. They lived during a World War and were sent to live in the middle of the country, because their town was going to be bombed.
Unexpectedly, they were sent to a huge house that had a magic wardrobe in it. One day they were playing hide and seek inside the house and the youngest of the four hid inside the wardrobe and found herself... in a land called Narnia.
I recommend this book to any reader who likes exciting adventures. When I read this book I found it to be fun (but short!).
Reviewed by John

tags: classic, series, fantasy, religious fiction

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The Bridge to Neverland
​          By Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson

The Bridge to Neverland
is a high flying book that reels in the fantasy world and the real world. It tells the interesting story of to kids who happen to find an old document from their favorite series… and suddenly they're a part of it! This book is a great reason to believe things that might be too crazy.
Reviewed by Riley

tags: series, adventure, fantasy, fairy tale

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Fort Solitude (Secret Hero Society #2)
          by Derek Fridolfs and Dustin Nguyen

My book review is about a graphic novel called Super Hero Society: Fort Solitude. It is about Batman, Superman, and Super Girl as kids. And they went to a camp called Evergreen Adventure Camp. But there was a problem that needed to be solved. And if you like superheroes I really really recommend this book!
​Reviewed by Lauren

tags: comic, superheroes, series, mystery

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Number the Stars
​          By Lois Lowry

This book review is about a really good book called Number the Stars. It's about a girl who had a Jewish friend, and they lived during World War II. Which was when the Germans tried to kill all the Jewish people. If you love Lois Lowry I just know you will love this book! It was a lot of action. I love this book and recommend it to ages 8 and up.
​Reviewed by Lauren

tags: classic, historical fiction, WW2

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The Horse and His Boy
          By C.S. Lewis

This is a story that C.S. Lewis created. It happens in two countries, called Narnia and Calormen. There is a boy who, with his talking horse, rans away from Calormen.
I think that, after the Voyage of the Dawn Treader, this is my second favorite Narnia book, because of the interesting battle that happens later on in the story. Whoever likes stories that have battles in it should read this book.
​Reviewed by John

tags: series, classic, fantasy, religious fiction, family favorite

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Hurry Up, Houdini! (Magic Tree House #50)
          By Mary Pope Osborne

The characters are Jack and Annie. Jack and Annie traveled back in time to New York. While in New York, they learned how to do magic tricks from the great Houdini. I liked this book because it had a sticker in the back. Also coin stickers which were cool.
Reviewed by Jack

tags: time travel, series, magic, historical fiction, fantasy

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Winter of the Ice Wizard (Magic Tree House #32)
          By Mary Pope Osborne

This book is about Jack, Annie, Teddy, and Kathleen. They had to get the ice wizard eye from the frost giant. They had to go to the hollow hill and get eye. The eye was in the hailstone. The wizard got the eye out of the hailstone.
​Reviewed by Jack

​tags: time travel, series, magic, historical fiction, fantasy

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Gotham Academy #2: Calamity
          By Becky Cloonan, Brenden Fletcher, and Karl Kerschl

My book review is about a graphic novel called Gotham Academy. It was about a girl named Olive and her mom died in a fire and came back as a demon to talk to her daughter back to hell. I recommend this book to people that like spooky stories! This book was pretty exciting!
Reviewed by Lauren 

tags: comic, mystery, superheroes

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The BFG
​          By Roald Dahl

The BFG is a book about: A girl named Sophie gets up in the middle of the night and looks out the window. In the distance she sees a man shaped shadow but extremely tall. That figure turns out being the BFG. He takes Sophie to giant country where there are nine other mean giants. BFG takes her to his cave. Later in the book they make a plan to stop the other giants. Will it work? Read more to find out.
​Reviewed by Alec

tags: classic, fantasy, humor, family favorite

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Heidi Heckelbeck Has a Secret
          By Wanda Coven and Priscilla Burris

I kind of liked the book. But it was a little bit boring because the chapters are really short. Sometimes I am interested and get sunk into the book. I kind of don't recommend it, but then again I do!
Reviewed by Camren

tags: series, ready for chapters, realistic fiction, school

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The Maze Runner
​          By James Dashner

I would recommend The Maze Runner. It is action packed and leaves you thirsting for more. In this book you can really feel the characters emotion and imagine what's going on. Each character is unique. It is a page turner that leaves you wanting more.
Reviewed by Elijah

tags: YA, dystopian, adventure, sci-fi

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The Raft
​          By S.A. Bodeen

I would not recommend the book The Raft. It is not nearly as exciting as the first and second book. It is not nearly as detailed of the last two books. At first he has everything handed to him on a silver platter, There was very little excitement in his challenges.

Reviewed by Elijah

tags: YA, survival fiction, travel, Pacific Ocean, disaster

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Meet the Mixels
          By Shari Last

I read about Mixels. I got to learn about the Mixels. The names of the groups are the Frosticons, the Infernites, the Spikeis, the Cragsters, the Glorp Corp, the Wiztastics, the Fang Gang, the Electraids, and the Flexers. I like Zoron from the Infernites.
Reviewed by Damien

tags: Ready For Chapters, Lego

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The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (The Chronicles of Narnia)
          By C.S. Lewis

The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is the fifth book of the Chronicles of Narnia, written by C.S. Lewis. It is about a king going on a voyage in the sea to find the seven lords whom is uncle Miraz sent away.
I like this book because it makes the adventure long and exciting. I think that anybody who likes voyages in a sea should read this book.
​Reviewed by John

​tags: classic, family favorite, series, religious fiction, fantasy

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Napoleon: A Life
          By Andrew Roberts

Napoloen: A Life, by Andrew Roberts, is a biography of Napoloen Bonaparte, emporor of the French and one of the greatest military commanders in history. It sheds light on the life of this great figure, from his obscure Corsican origins to his Italian and Egyptian campaigns, from his rise to power in a daring coup to his exile on St. Helena.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves history.
​Reviewed by Michael

​tags: nonfiction, France, history

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The Last Battle (Chronicles of Narnia)
          By C.S. Lewis

The Last Battle was written by C.S. Lewis and is about battle, of course, in a land called Narnia. In the book, there is a king in Narnia who is captured by a talking ape and his fellow Calormene (Calormen is an empire that hates Narnia).
In The Last Battle the Calormene lines charged the Narnians for the first time; it failed. After the second charge of the Calormen, the Narnians had to retreat. A few minutes later, the Narnian king (who escaped earlier in the book) found himself fighting the Calormene general.
I like the book because it makes the battle really exciting. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in battles.
Reviewed by John

tags: fantasy, series, classic, family favorite, religious fiction

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Big Nate: Say Good-Bye to Dork City
          By Lincoln Peirce

This book is about a kid named Nate who is trying to say goodbye to dork city. It's hard to do it when Marcus is against his real friends, so technically he's trying to be cooler so it's pretty hard to do that. And also because he is also bullying his half enemy because he is also his lead singer. But that doesn't mean you can't stand up for his buddy. Nate is still looking for a girlfriend :( So look for other Big Nate books! 
​By for now. This is my book report on Big Nate: Say Good-bye to Dork City.
Reviewed by Grayson

tags: humor, comic, realistic fiction, school

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Mission Unpluckable (The Bad Guys #2)
          By Aaron Blabey


5 predators are trying to be good guys, including a snake, wolf, piranha, shark, and tarantula. They think they are doing stuff that's good but it turns out the stuff they're doing isn't really appreciated. In this book they are trying to free chickens from the chicken farm. In the chicken farm if they touch the floors or walls the alarm goes off, so the tarantula hacks in and turns the alarm off. Then they climb through the vent. There are lasers in the vent that the tarantula couldn't turn off. So snake climbs through and turns them off... and they rescue the chickens.
​Reviewed by Alec

tags: comics-prose, humor, animals, series, adventure

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Reformed
          By Justin Weinberger

Ian is not paying attention in class, he is dozing off so is teachers sent him to reform school. As soon as school got out him and his friends got there and they find out it is a school full of bullies. One pushes Ian to the ground and is very mean to him and his buddies on a big trail.
​Reviewed by Damien

tags: school, realistic fiction, bullying

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Treasure Hunters
          By James Patterson

The book I am reading is called treasure Hunters. I just started today and am already on chapter 5, page 50! The book is about 4 children who lost thier mom in Cyprus and lost Dad on a fishing trip. The kids names are Bick, Beck, Tommy, and Storm.
One of my favorite parts of the book is the pictures because they are really detailed and I like detailed pictures. There are 70 chapters in the whole book. So far I love the book. I can't so enough how much I love the book.
The kids are also trying to find treasures by going scuba diving. The treasures they are trying to find are gold, silver, and shells. I hope they find treasures and their parents! By the way I LOVE THIS BOOK SO FAR!
Reviewed by Camren.

​tags: series, adventure, mystery

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Seven Dead Pirates
          By Linda Bailey

This book is about a kid called Lewis, and his great grandpa died sod his parents are moving to his old house. There are bad pirate ghosts there who tell him to do bad things, but it's funny.
​Reviewed by anonymous fifth grader

tags: adventure, ghost story, humor

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Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Double Down
          By Jeff Kinney

I really liked this book and I recommend all the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books. In this one I thought it was cool that Greg goes on adventures.
​Reviewed by Dean

tags: series, humor, school, prose-comic

Older Book Reviews:

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Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made
          By Stephan Pastis

Reviewed by Mr. John - Imagine a chapter book that combines Calvin and Hobbes and Big Nate, except it's been written by someone with a weirder sense of humor, and you're pretty close to this first book in the Timmy Failure series. 
Written by Stephan Pastis - the guy writes and draws the comic strip Pearls Before Swine - this book is about Timmy, his polar bear sidekick named Total, and their private detective agency. There are funny illustrations mixed into the text on every page, and the story is silly, funny, and sweet all at once. I have to admit that I sometimes found Timmy a little annoying - he doesn't really treat people very well - but overall I liked this book a lot, and thought it had a good message even though it made me laugh out loud!

tags: humor, pearls before swine, mystery, comic, polar bear

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The Obsidian Mirror
          By Catherine Fisher

The Obsidian Mirror is an action-packed adventure through time and space. I felt the different elements of the story (fantasy, sci-fi, mystery, adventure) were interesting, but didn't really go well together. The story had diverse characters and an intriguing back story. This book has been nominated for 2014-2015 Isinglass Teen Read Award.
Reviewed by Robbie.

​tags: science fiction, fantasy, time travel, myths

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The Adventures of Captain Underpants
          By Dav Pilkey

This book had a lot of comedy and excitement. captain Underpants is a superhero/principal. My favorite part was when Captain Underpants gave the bad guys a giant wedgie. I also like it when they make a giant plunger robot with laser eyes and a giant plunger with spikes.
Reviewed by Stephen.

tags: humor, action, adventure, growing up, school, friendship, early chapter book

Summer Reading Book Review:
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane
          By Kate DiCamillo

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The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane
          By Kate DiCamillo

This story was about a china rabbit who went on a journey and discovered emotions, most of all love. He feels sadness and pity, happiness and joy, and love and understanding. And in the end he discovers what matters most is not the clothes you wear or how rich you are, but how much you love. And in the end everything turned out fine.
tags: rabbit, adventure, friendship, emotions, love

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A Christmas Tale 
          By Geronimo Stilton

I think this book was very good for my age. The book had a lot of Christmas spirit in it. My favorite part is at the end when they all throw a party in Geronimo's apartment. My favorite character was Trap Stilton because he always pulls pranks on Geronimo Stilton. Geronimo Stilton is a 'fraidy mouse instead of going on adventures like his sister Thea. He would read a book. He is also afraid of being hit!
Reviewed by Stephen.

tags: animals, mouse, holidays, christmas, early chapter

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Theodore Boone: The Abduction
          By John Grisham

In my book, Theodore Boone's friend is a suspected victim in a kidnapping incident. Theo is the only one that knows an important fact about the crazy parents. The fact he knows is that neither parent was home. A distant pen pal broke out of jail and was spotted in the town where the kidnapping happened, so obviously he is a suspect. In my opinion this book is amazing!
tags: realistic fiction, mystery, suspense, high school, law

Summer Reading Book Review:
Wonder
          By RJ Palacio

Summer Reading Book Review:
And Then There Were None
          By Agatha Christie

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A kid named August starts his first time going to school. He's entering 5th grade. He has trouble making friends. He has a harsh first day. Everyone stares at August as he walks by because of his facial appearance. August meets a girl named Summer who is the only person who will sit with him at lunch. August faces bullies and trouble throughout the book. But it has a happy ending!
Reviewed by Katherine.
tags: disabilities, friendship, realistic fiction, feel good

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Review #1 - Ten people are lured to Indian Island. Eight arrive all at once, but the other two, the cook and the manservant, arrive before. They find the island deserted and an old nursery rhyme displayed. All of these people have committed a murder that the law can't prove. That night during the storm something mysterious happens... a murder! If you like the book Clue, I recommend this book to you. 194 pages, 18 chapters.
Reviewed by Elle.


Review #2 - The book I read was And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. The book was about 10 people going to Indian Island. They read a poem about how they're going to die. If you like mysteries I would recommend this book. I really enjoyed it!
Reviewed by Will.
​tags: mystery, murder, classic, suspense

Summer Reading Book Review:
Fortunately, the Milk
          by Neil Gaiman

Summer Reading Book Review:
The Pepins and their Problems
          by Polly Horvath

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The book I read was Fortunately, the Milk. I really liked this book. My favorite part is when they meet the wumpires. I also like when he meets Professor Steg. The funniest part is when the aliens try to redecorate earth. My favorite character is Professor Steg. This book is great for kids!
tags: short, humor, british, illustrations

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A family has unusual problems, like frogs in shoes, a cow gives lemonade not milk, getting stuck on the roof and then trying to jump off with a cord, and having a strange man walk in and say, "I'm home at last," and then sitting down on their couch. I think you should join the Pepins and their problems!
Reviewed by Katherine.
tags: humor, family, growing up

Summer Reading Book Review:
Skateboard Save
          by Jake Maddox

Summer Reading Book Review:
Valentine's Day Disaster
          by Geronimo Stilton

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I think this book is really good for young readers. it is about a boy that loves skateboarding and runs into some bully trouble. The book is very interesting and it happens in everyday life with everybody. I would recommend it for people in 2nd grade through 5th grade. I really liked this book and the author because they're quick reads for rainy days.
Reviewed by Ethan.
 
tags: sports, skateboard, skate, skating, extreme sports, short

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It was funny and I would recommend this book to my friends and other other kids because it was fun to read. I love Geronimo Stilton. I'm 13 and I still love him! I think he does things that are really cool.
Reviewed by Ashlee.
tags: mouse, humor, animals, easy chapter, holidays, valentine's day

Summer Reading Book Review:
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
          by JRR Tolkien

Summer Reading Book Review:
The Kingdom of Fantasy
          by Geronimo Stilton

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The Lord of the Rings is a fantasy novel by J.R.R. Tolkien. In the book, Frodo Baggins, a hobbit, embarks on a perilous qiest to destroy the One Ring. If the Ring is found by it's master, Sauron, the world will fall. Followed by his friends, the Fellowship of the Ring, Frodo journeys to Mount Doom, in the center of Sauron's realm. There alone can the Ring be destroyed. I recommend this book for readers 12 and up, who want an exciting way to entertain themselves.
Reviewed by Michael.
tags: fantasy, wizards, hobbits, magic, adventure, good vs. evil, epic, classic

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This was a great book. It was fun to read and very cool. There were dragons, ogres, and even fairies. It was awesome, and I would recommend it to other kids. The author made it really funny, and I really like how he wrote Geronimo. I like how he was funny and scared of everything. I wish I could jump into the book and go with him!
Reviewed by Ashlee.
tags: fantasy, dragons, humor, mouse, animals

Summer reading Book review:
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
          by J.K. Rowling

Summer Reading Book Review:
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
          by J.K. Rowling

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Harry Potter is having a bad year. First he inflates his aunt, and then Sirius Black escapes from prison. And now? There are dementors, plus Harry, Hermione, and Ron have to understand the mystery, find who Lupin really is, help Buckbeak, and hope that Hermione breaks Malfoy's nose (spoiler: she does!). This Harry Potter book will make you want more!
Reviewed by Derek.
tags: fantasy, wizards, witches, magic, epic, good vs. evil, adventure, hogwarts, high school

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Harry has to figure some stuff out. Hagrid has just told Harry that he is a wizard, given Dudley and pig tail, and taken Harry to Hogwart's School of Magic, where everyone is hiding a secret. The evil Lord Voldemort is looking for the Sorcerer's Stone to heal himself, and he is commanding one of the teachers. But which one? Read and find out!
Reviewed by Derek.
​tags: fantasy, wizards, witches, magic, epic, good vs. evil, adventure, high school

Summer Reading Book Review:
The Son of Neptune (Heroes of Olympus #2)
          by Rick Riordan

Summer Reading Book Review:
The House of Hades (Heroes of Olympus #4)
          by Rick Riordan

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Percy Jackson is once again on a quest, but he can't remember who he is! After wandering he finds a Roman camp and is sent an a quest with Hazel and Frank, and has to juggle some things like killing two giants, getting his memory back,  finding Thanatos God of Death and freeing him, and finally battling an army of monsters. Will he succeed?!
Reviewed by Derek.
tags: myths, greek mythology, adventure, fantasy

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Percy Jackson has entrapped many readers before and made them wait for the next novel. In this book, Percy and Annabeth are trapped in Tartarus and are travelling to the Doors of Death while their friends Leo, Piper, Jason, Frank, Hazel, and Nico try to get to the other end of the Doors of Death to stop monsters from flooding into the modern world. Will they close the Doors of Death in time?
Reviewed by Derek.
tags: myths, greek mythology, adventure, fantasy

Summer Reading Book Review:
Geronimo Stilton, Secret Agent
          by Geronimo Stilton

Summer Reading Book Review:
The Eye of Minds (Mortality Doctrine #1)
          by James Dashner

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This book was funny and cute. It was about when Geronimo Stilton lost an important document and he had to find it. On his journey his friends help him along the way.
Reviewed by Ashlee.
tags: humor, mouse, animals, mystery, short

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My book review is on The Eye of Minds. I was interested in this book because it was about gaming. A small summary of what I've read so far is that it's about Michael and his friends Sarah and Bryson, and the VNS sent them on a mission to capture an evil gamer named Kaine, who is controlling normal gamers. So Michael, Sarah, and Bryson have to capture him using their hacking skills.
Reviewed by Thor.
tags: science fiction, technology, virtual reality, mystery, suspense

Summer Reading Book Review:
I Can't Accept Not Trying
          by Michael Jordan

Summer Reading Book Review:
The Sight (Warriors: Power of Three #1)
          by Erin Hunter

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This is a book review on the book "I Can't Accept Not Trying." It was a really informational book on Michael Jordan. He explained his basketball career, golf career, and his baseball career. Michael also explained how he became so good at the game, and how he practiced. He also explained that fear to him is just an illusion.
Reviewed by Thor.
tags: nonfiction, basketball, sports, inspirational

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This book was about Lionpaw, a golden tabby tom, Hollypaw, a black she-cat, and Jaypaw, a blind gray tabby tom. It starts with their mischievous lives as kittens, and then some of their time as apprentices. I liked this book because it draws the reader in.
Reviewed by Levi.
tags: animals, cats, action, adventure, fantasy

Summer Reading Book Review:
Tangle of Knots
          by Lisa Graff

Summer Reading Book Review:
The Ability
          By M.M. Vaughan

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A Tangle of Knots is a good book. It is fun, mysterious, and fascinating. I liked how everybody has their own special talent. There wasn't anything that I didn't like about this book. Lisa Graff wrote this book about people and their talents, and how they all come together in the end. I would give this book 5 stars!
Reviewed by Rebecca.
tags: magic, orphans, fantasy, adventure, growing up

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Chis Lane is a twelve year old boy who is forced to steal to care for himself and his mother, but his life takes a strange turn when he earns a place at a special academy. It turns out children, when they are twelve, have "the ability," a power which consists of mind reading and telekinesis. But, not all people use this power for good. Chris and his friends must stop two boys from using this power to destroy other lives, all because one woman wants revenge.
Reviewed by Kaitlyn.
tags: science fiction, fantasy, suspense, school, mind control

Summer Reading Book Review:
Alcatraz Versus The Evil Librarians
          By Brandon Sanderson

GSF Team Book Review:
Nickel Bay Nick
          by Dean Pitchford

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Alcatraz Smedry is a foster child and he knows nothing about his family until his 13th birthday when he got his only inheritance: a bag of sand. A day later, Alcatraz's grandfather who he didn't know he hadcame looking for the sand only to fins it stolen by a bunch of evil librarians. So Alcatraz and his grandfather infiltrate the downtown library armed with glasses and Alcatraz's talent of breaking things.
Reviewed by Kyle.
tags: adventure, fantasy, mystery, humor

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We thought that this book was pretty good! It had some mystery and action stuff that we liked, and the main character was pretty good and easy to relate to. Sometimes we didn't feel like this book wasn't super realistic, but in all we really like it, and gave it 4/5 stars!
tags: mystery, realistic fiction, christmas, family

GSF Team Book Review:
The Hypnotists
          by Gordon Korman

TAB Book Review:
The Amulet series
          by Kazu Kibuishi

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We thought that this book was exciting from the very first word of the very first sentence. This book was a real page turner. However, we thought that the main character was a little slow on the uptake, and should have figured out the bad guy's plan earlier. In all, this book was some classic Gordon Korman adventure, and we gave it 5/5 stars!
The sequel, "Memory Maze," is out now!
tags: science fiction, fantasy, suspense

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The Amulet series is so good! It's got magic, dark magic, and there's lots of cool mysteries and stuff. I was so excited when the 6th book came out this fall!
Reviewed by Mark.
tags: fantasy, adventure, magic, family, animals, comic

GSF Team Book Review:
Mountain Dog
          by Margarita Engle

GSF Team Book Review:
Wake Up Missing
          by Kate Messner

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We were a little confused at first by the alternating narrators, but it was fine once we got used to it. We really liked the character of Gabe, because he's a dog and who doesn't like dogs?! However, we didn't like that it just sort of ended after a bunch of things happened all at once in the last chapter. Overall though, we really liked it, and we hope that Margarita Engle is working on a sequel! We give this book 4.5/5 stars! If you like this review you should come read this book at the Meredith Library!
tags: animals, dogs, realistic fiction, uplifting, nature, family

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This was a page turner! We really liked all the different characters, and the super detailed settings it had. The characters seemed very realistic and had a lot of personality. There was nothing we didn't like about this book! Hands down 5/5 stars!
tags: suspense, mystery, medicine, realistic fiction

GSF Team Book Review:
Rooftoppers
          by Katherine Rundell

Summer Reading Book Review:
Dash
          by Kirby Larson

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This was a beautifully written book, and probably Mr. John's favorite GSF book so far. It felt like a dream somehow. While we only meet a handful of characters, they really come to life, and they're so quirky and original that you really wind up rooting for them. And the ending! We were scrambling to turn the pages fast enough to find out what was going to happen. 5/5 stars, a must read!
tags: family, adventure, music, europe, realistic fiction, growing up

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**Spoilers Below**  This book was about a Japanese girl Mitsi Kashino in the time of Pearl Harbor. Mitsi has a dog named Dash. She has to go to an incarceration camp because she was Japanese. But the rule was there was no pets allowed, and that leaves Mitsi heartbroken because she doesn't know how long she'll be gone for. So about a couple weeks later they have to go to another incarceration camp that's even farther from Dash. They take a train for 3 days straight and end up in the desert. So they get off the train and go into the camp. About a week later the general finally said that pets were allowed and then Dash came to the camp and Mitsi was REALLY happy. And that was the end of the book. This book is a Great Stone Face nominee this year.
By Meghan
tags: historical fiction, world war 2, animals, dogs

Summer Reading Book Review:
Below the Surface
          by Tim Shoemaker

Summer Reading Book Review: 
The Prisoner in Cell 25 (Michael Vey #1)
          by Richard Paul Evans

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**Spoilers Below**  I read a book called Below the Surface. It's the last book in the Code of Silence series. It's about four kids: Cooper, Gordy, Lunk, and Hiro. They are trying to take a vacation when one night they witnessed a fight on a boat called Kyproto Night. They they heard a splash and a scream. Then the boat began to drive around in circles. After that Hiro calls the police. The police came and talked to the driver. Then the girl who "fell in the water" came walking up the beach. Hiro didn't think it was the same girl that was in the boat. Cooper, Gordy, and Lunk didn't believe her either. So after that they are riding on their bikes when a car comes and smashes Cooper into some rocks! After that they realize that they're being stalked, and the person who's stalking them is Joseph Stein (who was in book 1). He tries to kill Hiro but it failed. He got sent behind bars. And Hiro was right about the girl who fell in the water, who did drown! Then the driver got sent to prison.
By Meghan
tags: mystery, suspense, murder, friends

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Michael is a boy who moves around a ton, he lives with his mom, and is ELECTRIC! He and his friend Ostin find he's not alone in the world because there are 17 electric humans. He makes friends with Taylor and finds she's electric too, but she gets kidnapped. Can he save the world and his friends? This is a good book that is my favorite in my collection. I highly recommend it.
By Derek
tags: science fiction, action, adventure, teens superpowers

Summer Reading Book Review:
Ruins of Gorlan (Ranger's Apprentice #1)
          By John Flanagan

Summer Reading Book Review:
Fudge, Super Fudge
          By Judy Blume

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Will, a scrawny orphan boy, is rejected by every one of the taskmasters in Redmont except one: Halt. he is plunged into an adventure which has him making friends with an enemy, training to be a ranger, and finally saving halt from a monster. This is a good book that is one of my favorites.
By Derek
tags: fantasy, action, adventure, friends

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Book 1: Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing. This book is about Peter Hatcher and how he has to live with his little brother Farley Drexel Hatcher, also known as Fudge. Fudge is really mischievous and causes a lot of problems for big brother Peter. I like this book because it is very funny and teaches you that not everything in life goes your way.
Reviewed by Mackenzie.
tags: realistic fiction, humor, growing up, siblings

TAB Review:
When the Butterflies Came
          By Kimberly Griffiths Little

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Everyone thinks Tara has the perfect life. But when her grandmother dies in a car crash, Tara's life begins to fall apart. It's up to Tara to follow a trail of mysterious clues to piece her life back together. I thought the action was a bit slow, but it was overall a good book!  Reviewed by Ava.
​tags: mystery, grief, family, uplifting

TAB Book Review:
Allegiant
          By Veronica Roth

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**minor spoilers ahead** This was a very well-written book, but it was very depressing because the author kept killing people off. She did a great job of making you fall in love with the characters, but that only made the ending more difficult. Sometimes the plot got a little confusing and I had to re-read it a couple times. The author also used a lot of tough vocab words, so I sometimes had to stop and look things up. This is the third book in the Divergent series, and I have to say that if you've only read the first book that you should just stop reading, because they'll only depress you!
Reviewed by Sarah.
tags: dystopian, action, adventure, science fiction, love triangle

The Librarian Recommends:
Fangbone: Third Grade Barbarian
          by Michael Rex

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I absolutely loved this graphic novel. The first in the series, it tells the story of how Fangbone travels through a magical passageway and into our world. He's on a mission to defend the Big Toe of Drool the Sorcerer in order to prevent the sorcerer from coming back to life. Full of lots of funny lines and cool action, I definitely recommend this series to anyone who likes action, stories about fitting in, and people who like their humor a little bit gross.
tags: humor, comic, fantasy, school, action

The Librarian Recommends:
Delirium 
          by Lauren Oliver

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Reviewed by Mrs. The Librarian - Delirium is a forbidden love story in a dystopian society that
believes love is the most dangerous disease and requires all members to receive a "cure" in the form of a lobotomy at age 18.  The main character, Lena, has spent most of her life looking forward to the cure.  Her mother committed suicide when Lena was very young due to"the disease" and Lena is anxious to avoid her mother's fate.  Then Alex comes into her life.  He is part of the rebel movement that exists outside of the fences surrounding the cured cities.  He soon "infects" Lena with love, and they have just one summer to spend together before she is scheduled to receive the cure.  Simultaneously, Lena is beginning to deal with the knowledge that she will lose her
best friend, who she has little in common with, once the irrational part of her brain in charge of love is removed.  

This book stands apart from the rest of the teenage dystopian drama because of how well
written it is.  Lauren Oliver sets a beautiful scene, and her characters are dynamic and real.  The book stands on its own as a wonderful love story, but it is also the start of a trilogy that turns dramatic and dangerous in the later two book.
tags: dystopian, romance, adventure, friends, action

TAB Review:
Epic by Conor Kostick

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This is a very good science fiction book. The main character, Erik, lives in a changed world after a nuclear war. The government bans many things, including all violence, and all conflicts - along with the economy - are decided by your avatars performance in a video game called Epic. 
Erik lives in a poor district, and his last avatar just died so he needs to make a new one. When he does, he adds unusual and usually unused characteristics, and discovers a way to cheat the game! Eric and his team become very rich after using his finding, and then they use their new knowledge to try and destroy Central Allocations, which is a powerful group of nine individuals that controls all of the world's resources and funds the most powerful characters in the game world. This novel is an amazing story about bravery and never giving up! Reviewed by Robbie.
tags: science fiction, dystopian, friends, action, adventure

The Librarian Recommends:
Star Wars - Infinities

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What if Luke's torpedo had malfunctioned at the end of A New Hope, and the first Death Star was never destroyed? Or what if Han's Tauntaun had died before he reached Luke at the beginning of The Empire Strikes Back, and Luke had died on the frozen world of Hoth? Or what if Leia's thermal detonator had gone off at the beginning of Return of the Jedi, and they weren't able to rescue Han from Jabba the Hutt?
Change one little thing, and the ripple of effect can re-shape the entire story of Star Wars. This graphic novel collects three stories, each one retelling one of the original movies with one small detail changed. I really enjoyed all three, even if the second one ends really abruptly. The art was a bit hit-or-miss, but overall it was pretty good. I highly recommend this interesting take on the Star Wars universe!
tags: science fiction, action, adventure, sith, jedi, space

SR Book Review:
Brave 
          The Novelization of the Movie

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This book is about an Irish princess girl and she turns her mom into a bear! She has to get her back to mom form before it has been 24 hours or she won't turn back! Can she do it? You'll have to read the book to find out! (or watch the movie!)  Reviewed by Kaelyn

SR Book Review:
How to Twist a Dragon's Tale
          By Cressida Cowell

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**Contains Spoilers**  This book is about a Hiccup having to to stop a volcano from exploding! One part of this book is sad because his Mom dies. Another thing that happened was that Hiccup's bodyguard was trying to kill him, but Hiccup didn't know it, so what Hiccup was going to fight Snoutlout the bodyguard gave Snoutlout a real ax! I like this book!
​tags: fantasy, humor, adventure, dragons, norse mythology

SR Book Review:
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

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**Contains Spoilers**  This is one of the books in the series, "The Chronicles of Narnia." It tells a story about four siblings who find a magical wardrobe that leads them into a land called "Narnia." One thing that happened was that Edmund was tricked by the White Witch. She told him she was going to make him a prince in Narnia, but she was really trying to capture him. This was a really good book. 
​tags: fantasy, good vs. evil, family, adventure, magic

SR Book Review:
Wings of Fire: The Dragonet Prophecy
          by Tui T. Sutherland

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I read Wings of Fire: The Dragonet Prophecy by Tui T. Sutherland. It's about 5 Dragonets (young dragons) who are destined to end a big war against all the dragons. The main characters names are: Clay, Sunny, Glory, Tsunami, and Starflight. I really liked the book because of all the adventure, humor, and fantasy!  Reviewed by Kyle
​tags: fantasy, dragons, adventure

SR Book Review:
Babymouse: Our Hero
          by Jennifer L. Holm

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I thought it was a great comic book. It is my 2nd favorite book. I think Babymouse is really funny.

This title is the second of 18 books in the series.

SR Book Review:
Dragonbreath: Lair of the Bat Monster by Ursula Vernon

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**contains spoilers**  The first part of this book was about Danny going to see his cousin. Danny and his best friend Wendell have a bat that was stuck in the pool. They brought it to his cousin, and after he looked at it he said it was a "Big Brown Bat," they went to see some other bats. When they saw them coming out of the cave, all of a sudden they saw them go right back in. They heard a noise and Danny's cousin thought it was a logger. But Danny and Wendell didn't think it was a logger. It was actually a giant bat monster named Comotazotz! It grabbed Danny and brought him into the cave. Wendell had to go in to save him. After he saved him they went back home and their mother asked them how their day was. They said it was "fine." After that, they let the bat go in the dark of the night. It was a great story!  Reviewed by Elijah.

SR Book Review:
Henry and the Paper Route 
          by Beverly Cleary

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Henry Huggins cannot wait until he is eleven years old. Then he can have his own paper route. As soon as he turns eleven, he goes to apply for the job. He gets there and is very disappointed. The job is already taken, by a new boy in town named Murph. Henry finds out that Murph only has the job so he can earn money to buy parts for his robot. A little girl named Ramona is very interested in Murph. Murph’s first try at his job is a disaster. Ramona is driving him crazy. She has a very stubborn personality. They end up in a fight. Murph is very embarrassed and quits his job. Henry finally gets his paper route. In conclusion, I really like this book because there is a lot of humor in it. The author Beverly Cleary is famous for the books she writes. Her books are very interesting and funny. I recommend this book to people who like to laugh out loud. Reviewed by Elle.

TAB Review
Chosen by Ted Dekker

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13 years ago the Roush, white bats, created man. Then the Shataiket, evil black bats, created disease that turned people into monsters when they are in the desert. So the white bats created lakes in the middle of the forest that could save the people from the disease. Eventually, the people forgot about the bats, and were no longer able to see them. Except for Johnis. Johnis finds out that the black bats are planning to find the very powerful Books of History in order to destroy the world. So he sets out to find the books himself, along with three friends and a bat that knows karate! Reviewed by Clara.

Chosen is the first book in the Lost Books series.

TAB Quick Picks

This is a list of popular books, and our ratings out of 10 possible points.

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
          -9/10
          -12.5/10
          -8.5/10
          -9/10
          -9/10

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
          -8.5/10
          -10/10
          -8.5/10
          -7/10
          -15.6/10
          -8.5/10

Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick
          -7/10
          -8/10
          -100,000,000/10
          -6/10
          -6/10
          -8.5/10

Bonus Quick Pick
Hugo (movie)
          -10/10
          -4/10
          -10/10
          -8.5/10
          -9/10

TAB Television Review:
Once Upon a Time

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I really like this show because it's very exciting. My favorite part is when they switch between the real world and the fantastical world. I don't like how they always end the season with a huge cliffhanger, because it's so suspenseful! Reviewed by Catie.

Once Upon a Time will return to ABC in the fall.

The Librarian Recommends:
The Death and Return of Superman

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Almost 20 years ago, the impossible happened: Superman was killed. But in his place 4 new mysterious Supermen rose, and remained in his place until the true Man of Steel returned. This library has long owned "The Return of Superman," which collects the story of his rise from the dead, but we recently added a new omnibus that collects his death, funeral, and return in one massive, shiny tome. And I have to say, it's a beautiful piece of graphic art.
I highly recommend this book, and truly believe that it is the finest Superman story I've ever read, and one of the most important comics ever.

TTBC Review
Swindle

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Even though we liked all the different types of characters, and thought the way they planned their heist was cool, we generally thought that this book was kind of boring. It could even be called the vanilla ice cream of books. No twists, no surprises. Dull.

3.5 out of 6 thumbs up.


Tab Review
One For the Murphy's

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After Carly and her mother are attacked by her new step-father, Carly gets sent to a foster home known as "The Murphy Home." At first, Carly thinks that the Murphy's are too good for her, but once she bonds with the family she gets so attached that she has a hard time letting go when her real mother is ready to take her home again. Reviewed by Grace.

TAB Review
Sun Trail by Erin Hunter

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I'm only halfway through this book, but I already give it 5 stars! This is the first book in the newest Warriors series (Dawn of the Clans), and it takes place before the other books. It is a look back at how the clans got started. The 2 main characters travel from the mountains to the forest, despite the fact that they disagree with each other about it. Reviewed by Clara.

LIBRARIAN'S DISCLAIMER: Despite the cute cats on the covers, this series can be surprisingly violent and bloody. 

TAB Review
Saving Sky by Diane Stanley

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This was a very serious book about what would happen if 9/11 was just the beginning of lots of attacks on America. A girl named Sky has to try and live a normal life during the 10 year war that changes the whole country. She can't even take a shower! I give it 4 out of 5 stars!
Reviewed by Sarah Seeley.

Saving Sky was a 2012-2013 Great Stone Face nominee.

The Librarian Recommends:
Scott Pilgrim

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I'm a huge fan of the movie that they made based on this series, so I wanted to finally read the source material. And I have to say, I was not disappointed! These books have a great sense of humor, are filled with all sorts of video game-type references, and tons of action. There is some kissing and a touch of blood, so I would recommend this series for kids 12+. My only complaint is that some things that happened weren't really explained at all, but it wasn't enough to detract from the story. Overall, I really liked these books, and I give the series 4 out of 5 stars!

The Librarian Recommends:
Artemis Fowl: The Graphic Novel by Eion Colfer

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I have to admit that I haven't read the novels that this comic is based on, but I know that they're quite popular, so I thought that this would be a good way to see what all the fuss was about. On the one hand, I enjoyed the art, and the story left me wanting to read the original books. But on the other hand, the reason that I want to read the books is that I feel like too much content was cut out of the novels, and the comic felt shallow and incomplete. Overall, I did enjoy the story of this 12 year-old criminal genius and his staff as they combat an underground organization of faeries, dwarves, and other supernatural creatures. I was particularly impressed by the way they managed to develop the main character a little bit, and give some depth to his relationships. But all this seemed too little too late, and the comic left me with too many questions to be satisfied. I would recommend this book to fans of the original novels, as well as anyone who wants a fun, if short, adventure full of gadgets, faeries, and one particularly nasty troll.

The Librarian Recommends:
Dying to Meet You by Kate Klise

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I picked up this book, the first in the 43 Old Cemetery Road series, after my Teen Advisory Board absolutely insisted that I needed to read it. I wasn't expecting much, but as soon as I opened it I knew I was in for a treat. Written as a series of notes, letters, and newspaper articles, the book nerd in me was immediately in love with Kate Klise. I've never read a book written in this style, and it worked so well with the themes that I can't imagine this story being written any other way. I recommend this book to anybody who likes reading, writing, and drawing, as well as the fans of the supernatural. I will be making a point to finish this series as soon as I possibly can!

TAB Movie Review - 42
     reviewed by Sarah Seeley

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I recommend this movie as a fun way to become educated in baseball while learning about the history and struggles of racism. It was very realistic, and the family of the real Jackie Robinson had to approve it first. I admired Jackie's strength and bravery while pursuing his dream!

Want to learn more about Jackie Robinson? Click the button below to search our catalog for everything Jackie!

Jackie Robinson

TAB Music Review - "Thrift Shop" by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis

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I love this song because it’s funny and outrageous. It does involve a few colorful words, so don’t let your parents hear it. (jk!) This is the only song by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis that I know, but it’s super catchy, so I really like it!

“Thrift Shop” appears on the album The Heist.


TAB Book Review - The Magician's Elephant by Kate DiCamillo

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This was a short and sweet read. It went by fast, and the ending was very predictable. However, the author’s description of the setting made it feel like you were really there!

Also by this author:

Because of Winn-Dixie
The Tale of Despereaux
The Mercy Watson series

Recommended Reading: Divergent by Veronica Roth

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In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue—Candor(the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is—she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself. During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles to determine who her friends really are—and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes fascinating, sometimes infuriating boy fits into the life she's chosen. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers a growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also learns that her secret might help her save those she loves… or it might destroy her.
Debut author Veronica Roth bursts onto the literary scene with the first book in the Divergent series—dystopian thrillers filled with electrifying decisions, heartbreaking betrayals, stunning consequences, and unexpected romance.

TTBC Book Review:
The London Eye Mystery
          by Siobhan Dowd

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This book was a good mystery with a little bit of humor here and there. The main character was very weird, which we thought made it hard to relate to him. We did like how the author described the London scenery, it was very cool. We thought this was a fun book, and several of us found ourselves reading this book out loud and pretending we had British accents! Overall, we enjoyed the story and the setting, and even though the characters weren't our favorites, we still give this book an average of 4.25 stars out of 5!
tags: mystery, realistic fiction, disabilities

TAB Book Review:
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
          By JK Rowling

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I loved this book! If you haven't read any Harry Potter, this is the 3rd book in the series.  There are some interesting new characters, and it's action packed. Plus it has some comedy, too. I liked this book so much that I couldn't put it down until I'd finished every last word! It gets 10 stars!
Reviewed by Clara.
​tags: fantasy, wizards, witches, magic, epic, good vs. evil, adventure, high school

TTBC Book Review:
Do you Know The Monkey Man?
          By Dori Hillestad Butler

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We had mixed feelings about this book. We liked the mystery at the beginning, and how Sam tried to solve it, and we liked how the book ended. But, we thought it was reckless when she and her friend ran away and snuck into the city by themselves. We were't sure that this was realistic. We would probably recommend this book to our friends, especially to someone whose parents are separated, because it deals with some tough issues and emotions that they would relate to.
Overall we give this book 3 out of 5 stars.
tags: realistic fiction, family, suspense, mystery

TTBC Book Review:
Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld

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Most of us really liked this book a lot. We liked how creative everything was: the world, the characters, the machines, everything. We also liked how it tied into the actual history of WWI, and it gave us a chance to learn a little history. Our only problem was that sometimes the action slowed down and it got a little boring, but overall we really liked it! We give it an average of 4.75 out of 5 stars!

TAB Review:
Trial by Journal by Kate Klise

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This book is good. It's about a girl who is twelve and she is a member of the jury in the Bob White case. The girl's name is Lily, and she is friends with the victim (Perry Keet). Lily goes on an adventure to see if Bob White is guilty. This book was written by Kate Klise, who also wrote the 43 Old Cemetery Road series. Reviewed by Kayla.
tags: realistic fiction, mystery, growing up, humor

The Librarian Recommends:
Star Wars - Purge

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Covering the time between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope, this book graphic novel collects four tales about Darth Vader hunting down the Jedi who escaped the implementation of Order 66. 
I really enjoyed all four stories, in part because they showed Vader sometimes struggling in his transition from Anakin Skywalker to the fearsome Sith Lord that he eventually becomes. He makes mistakes, gets beat up, and even gets punished by the emperor at one point. This gave the character lots of depth, and gives you a look at the man behind the mask.
I also really thought art was great throughtout this book, especially in the third story, titled "A Hidden Blade."
Overall, I highly recommend this title. There is some sci-fi violence, and lots of people die, but this is pretty standard Star Wars stuff, so I still think it's suitable for Star Wars fans ages 10 and up!
tags: science fiction, action, adventure, sith, jedi

The Librarian Recommends:
Star Wars Omnibus - Clone Wars Volume 1

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Wow, what a book! This collection of Clone Wars comics covers the action of the Clone Wars that isn't shown in the movies, and introduces a bunch of really interesting characters. It is full of great action, suspense, and intrigue. The art is consistently great, and the writing is superb. 
This book is, however, very violent. Many characters die, and the pages can be a little explicit. Not much blood, if any, but this book is not for younger Star Wars fans, that's for sure. I would recommend this title to Star Wars fans 13+.
tags: science fiction, action, adventure, sith, jedi

SR Book Review:
Monument 14
          By Emmy Raybourne

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Fourteen kids, from both high school and grammar school, are in a fight to survive during the apocalypse. They are stranded in a local super store and must band together if they have any hope to survive. A mega-tsunami hits the east coast of the United States, and wipes everything out. This triggers a chain of strange and damaging weather throughout the rest of the country, and causes a chemical spil in Momument, Colorado. The spill releases a compound that attacks people based on their blood type: Type O goes deranged and violent with bloodlust, Type AB starts to hallucinate extremely, Type A develops deadly blisters that ooze blood, and Type be only become infertile. These fourteen kids are faced with Armageddon, and are expected to survive in this thrilling book by Emmy Raybourne!  Reviewed by Izaiah.
tags: adventure, action, apocalypse, survival, teens

SR Book Review:
Sea of Monsters
          By Rick Riordan

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This book is a little bit funny but a little bit scary! I liked it because it had some fun parts, like when Percy has a dodgeball fight with the monsters! This book is #2 in the series, and I think you should read them in order. This book's also going to be a movie soon!  Reviewed by Kaelyn.
tags: adventure, action, greek mythology

SR Book Review:
My Life as a Stuntboy
          By Janet Tashjian

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This book is great! It has suspense but it also has humor! You would like it probably if you're going into 4th or 5th grade. I loved the part when the main character Derek Fallon first finds out he's going to be a stunt boy! I overall lovelovelove this book!  Reviewed by Kaelyn.
tags: humor, realistic fiction, movies

SR Book Review:
City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

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The City of Bones, by Cassandra Clare, is about a girl named Clary Fray, who is perfectly normal until she sees three teenages murder someone. The odd thing is that no one but Clary can see them. Soon Clary's life is changed, her mother is captured and Clary is brought to a place called The Insitute, where she must learn about what seems like a different world, find her own past, and save her mother. I enjoyed the amount of adventure in this book, and how it keeps you interested and well informed about the world that Clary lives in.  Reviewed by Kaitlyn.
tags: science fiction, fantasy, paranormal, demons, horror, adventure

SR Book Review:
Big Nate: Here Goes Nothing by Lincoln Peirce

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**contains spoilers**  The two main things that happen in this book are the school getting mold and Big Nate and his friends winning the soccer game. My favorite part is when the school has "prank day." It was hilarious. The school has "prank day" every year, but the principal didn't want to have it this year, so he posted a "bogus cop" outside the school. Nate asked him a few questions and the one that got him busted was, "What's you badge number?" Big Nate was a "Natetastic" book.  Reviewed by Elijah.

SR Book Review:
Nectar in a Sieve
          By Kamala Markandaya

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Rukmani, an old woman, reflects on her life. The educated daughter of a village headman fallen on hard times, Rukmani is married at the age of twelve to Nathan, a tenant farmer. Nathan treats her with kindness and respect as she learns the chores her new life requires. Within a year they have a beautiful daughter, Ira, and good rice harvests. During the next six years, Rukmani does not conceive. Troubled that she cannot produce a son for Nathan, Rukmani visits her ill mother and there meets Kenny, a foreign doctor. He treats her infertility without Nathan's knowledge. In quick succession, Nathan bears five sons. With each birth, however, the family as a little less to eat. When a tannery is built nearby, unpleasant changes come to village life. Rukmani's two oldest sons eventually go to work there. They help the family a great deal with their wages but are eventually dismissed for being ringleaders in a labor strike. There are only a few of the conflicts poor Rukmani and her family must deal with in her small, but rapidly growing village.  Reviewed by Izaiha.

SR Book Review:
Princess Academy
          by Shannon Hale

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In this book, Miri, a little village girl, goes to an academy with about 20 other girls from her village. The purpose of the academy is to train girls to be princesses so the prince can choose his wife. At the academy, Miri hates the teacher and her unfair punishents. The girls want to return to their quaint village but they can’t. They come up with plans to escape, And along the way, Miri makes some new and unexpected friendships. Read more of the book to see what happens, and who the prince chooses! Reviewed by Alex.

TTBC Review for July
Ender's Game by Orson Scott card

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**CONTAINS SPOILERS**  Overall, we didn't really like this book. It was too sad, and we felt bad for Ender. He didn't get to be a kid, and that's sad. We also thought that the book was very violent, and didn't agree with the humans destroying the buggers. We wouldn't recommend it because it's scary, and unlike books like Harry Potter, there isn't enough good stuff to make up for it. We only give it 1.5 stars our of 4.

TAB Television Favorites
The Regular Show and Spongebob Squarepants

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Spongebob Squarepants is a show about a sea sponge that lives in a pineapple. Sounds great, right? If I had to rate it out of 10, I would give it a 15!

I love Regular Show. It has hilarious jokes, engaging plots, and outrageous characters!

TAB Review:
Delirium by Lauren Oliver

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I just started this book, but I am already in love with it. 
In the USA, love is banned. When you turn 18 you have to receive a "cure" before you're "infected" by love. Lena has always believed that love was a disease, until she met a boy who actually believes in love. She has no idea what to do now. Reviewed by Clara.

Delirium is a great book that The Librarian recommends to fans of dystopian fiction with romantic entanglements like the Hunger Games, the Uglies series by Scott Westerfeld, and Ally Condie's Matched Trilogy.

The Librarian Rents a DVD:
Warm Bodies

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Reviewed by Mrs. The Librarian - I had high expectations for Warm Bodies after seeing the first trailer, because I thought that a zombie rom-com was certainly a fresh, if rather silly, premise.  And indeed, the movie delivered, due in no small part to the fact that it didn't take itself too seriously.  

It is narrated by zombie R's very witty internal dialogue, and blends humor and the apocalypse with great success.  Despite the dark premise (R meets his love interest Julie after eating her boyfriend's brain) the movie manages to maintain its light tone throughout tense moments.  And while I don't think I'll be adjusting my zombie contingency plan to "find a zombie to fall in love with me, save humanity," it makes for a really enjoyable movie.

Warm Bodies is based on a book of the same title by Isaac Marion.  The book is also enjoyable, although it takes itself a bit more seriously and therefore struggles to set a consistent tone.  While I almost always enjoy books more than their movie adaptations, this is one instance where the movie is more successful.  However, the book is
certainly still worth a read!

The Librarian Goes to the Movies:
Star Trek: Into Darkness

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As a huge Star Trek nerd, I was super excited to finally see this movie, and I was not disappointed at all. Although the opening scene wasn't as powerful as the last movie, I thought that the overall film was just as good, if not better. The highlight for me was the villain, whose name I won't spoil for you, who was played masterfully by Benedict Cumberbatch. He was creepy, powerful, and awesome all at once. I highly recommend this movie to everyone, not just fans of action, sci-fi, or Star Trek. It was so good that I'm still humming the theme song 2 days later!

Star Trek: Into Darkness is in theaters now, and is rated PG-13 for intense scenes of sci-fi action and violence.

TAB Review
The Unwanteds

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This book is awesome, I could not stop reading. This story is a magical fantasy about kids who learn to be creative after escaping from a society where creativity is not allowed. The characters have distinctly different personalities and I could definitely relate to all of them. I will always remember this book! Reviewed by Robbie.

The Librarian recommends this book for fans of both Harry Potter and the Hunger Games, as it contains themes from both.

TAB Review 
Rise of the Evening Star

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Kendra and Seth's grandparents live on a magic preserve called Fablehaven. The society of the Evening Star is trying to take it over in order to release the evil spirits that live there. And when their grandparents get locked in a dungeon, evil imps are running free in the house, and deamon is hunting them down, what can Kendra and Seth do to save the day? Reviewed by Clara.

This book is the second in the Fablehaven series by Brandon Mull.

TAB Review
Eight Keys by Suzanne Lafleur

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A girl finds a mysterious key that opens a door in her barn that's always been locked. The key turns out to be an elaborate gift from her father who died of cancer. I liked this book, but I only gave it 3 out of 5 stars, because it was less of a mystery than the back cover said, and more about her relationships with her friends and at school. 
Reviewed by Ava.


TAB Review:
So B. It by Sarah Weeks

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This was an interesting book. It’s about a 12 year old girl named Heidi who is very lucky. She lives with her mentally ill mom and her next door neighbor who takes care of them. Over all I think it was a good book! Reviewed by Rio Vazquez-Billin.


So B. It is a heart-warming story about overcoming the odds to find out who you really are, and was a Parents Choice award winner in 2004.

The Librarian Goes to the Movies:
The Great Gatsby

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Adapted from the classic American novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, this movie was brought to the big screen by Baz Luhrmann, who also directed Romeo and Juliet and Moulin Rouge. If you've seen those other movies, then you have a good idea of what to expect. This film of full of bright colors, tons of music, and some weird special effects.
The highlight of the movie for me was the scene in which we see Gatsby for the first time, but I thought the second half of the movie was too slow-moving. Overall, I enjoyed this movie, and although it wasn't perfect, it had enough great moments that I think it's worth seeing, whether you've read the book or not!
The Great Gatsby is in theaters now, and it is rated PG-13 for some violent images, sexual content, smoking, partying, and brief language.

Teen/Tween Book Club Review:
Amulet bk 1: The Stonekeeper

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2.5 out of 6 Thumbs Up.

Even though the opening scene really draws you in, and there’s a lot of action, this book got confusing sometimes. The story was also predictable, and you could guess what would happen next. We did like the art style, although sometimes it seemed to childish, especially compared to the serious story.

This is the first book in a series. There are currently 5 books in the series, with book 6 coming out in September.


The Librarian Recommends:
Ghostopolis by Doug TenNapel

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I have to say that I really enjoyed this graphic novel, and I would highly recommend it for readers 10-16. Particularly those who enjoy slightly spooky supernatural fiction (such as The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman), will enjoy TenNapel's weird version of  the afterlife. This adventure follows a boy named Garth who is accidentally sent to the afterlife before his time, and a "washed up ghost wrangler" named Frank Gallows who tries to bring him back. I really the plethora of fun action scenes, because TenNapel's art really has a chance to shine. In fact, on several occasions the story goes on for pages with little to no text, relying solely on the illustrations to move the story along. This does make for a short read (I got through it in about an hour), but the world the author creates feels huge, and the fun story of heroics and redemption make it totally worth a read!

TAB Movie Review - The Croods

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I thought this movie was boring, although it had some funny parts that I liked. I think younger kids might like it. It had some gross parts that kids will like, like when they ate a bunch of slimy stuff. Overall, the root beer I drank was the best part of the movie.

The Croods is in theaters now, and is rated PG for some scary action.


TAB Book Review - Zip by Ellie Rollins

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This was one of those “outside the box” reads. I thought it was interesting and imaginative. There were a lot of different characters and scenes, making each chapter unique. In all, it was very good, and I would recommend it to those who like adventure with a little bit of fantasy.


Author Spotlight: John Green

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John Green
Beginning with his breakout first novel Looking for Alaska in 2005, John Green has been at the forefront of youth literature for nearly a decade now. Although published when John was only 28, Alaska won the American Library Associations Michael J. Printz award for teen literature, and John has not looked back since. He was once again nominated for the Printz award for his 2006 book, An Abundance of Katherines, before collaborating with fellow YA juggernauts Lauren Myracle and Maureen Johnson for the 2007 collection of intertconnected short stories Let It Snow. He published his third novel, Paper Towns, in 2008, before collaborating on the book Will Grayson, Will Grayson with fellow YA writer and friend David Levithan. Most recently, John published the novel The Fault in Our Stars in 2012, which quickly became one of the most publicly hyped and critically acclaimed YA novels in years. John's writing style is primarily very gritty and realistic, and he is known for his ability to write books that resonate with a younger audience without having to talk down to his readers. He is one of the most talented writers working right now, and we highly recommend anything he's written!

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